When I led the Bureau of Land Management under President Biden, the hardest part of my job was reassembling the agency after the first Trump administration had scattered its headquarters from our nation’s capital. The move crippled the agency—as intended.

That experience led me to understand that the current Trump administration’s unpopular plan to move the U.S. Forest Service headquarters will be every bit as destructive. It will hurt forests, wildlife and communities that rely upon our public lands and waters.

In 2020, almost 90% of the BLM employees ordered to move West chose not to, forcing them out the door. With those seasoned employees went years of wisdom and knowledge of how things are supposed to work, of how to deliver for the American people.

Today’s Forest Service plan goes farther, aiming to close regional offices and shutter dozens of the agency’s research centers, as we face what some say will be a horrific wildfire season.

The Forest Service and the BLM combined manage 20% of our country’s lands and waters. These public lands, the places we camp, hike, watch birds, hunt and simply wander in nature, are truly one of America’s best ideas. For Westerners, they are a deep part of our identity.

There is a reason Forest Service headquarters are based in Washington, DC. It’s where our nation’s leaders work. Believe me, I did not want to move to the capital from my home in Montana to run the BLM, but to be able to fight for Western people and places, I had to go to the seat of our nation’s power.

I was often in the Interior Secretary’s offices. I frequently walked to work with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service director, talking through thorny problems such as how to protect wildlife while permitting transmission lines. Washington is where people manage relationships with Congress, where budgets get made.

The administration says all their changes are about bringing leadership closer to where the work happens. That’s a political talking point, and it’s false.

If DOGE’s dismantling of government agencies last year provides any lesson, then cruelty and disruption are the real point. These changes aim to create chaos, deliver the administration’s stated goal of traumatizing employees, and imperil the very existence of public lands — lands that belong to all Americans. We improve the management of our forests by giving foresters the resources they need and letting them make decisions based on sound science and collaboration, not by gutting their agency.

Over the course of the last year, the Forest Service forced or coerced roughly a quarter of its approximately 30,000 employees to leave. In this latest round of engineered chaos, thousands of people will be reassigned and ordered to move. If BLM history is any guide, almost all will leave their positions rather than uproot their families. The agency could soon be left with roughly half its former ranks.

Think of your job. Now, think of half of your colleagues gone. Would your organization be able to recover from the loss and demoralization to do its work?

There are inevitable repercussions to this radical attack on our public land management agencies: Campgrounds will close. Trails won’t be maintained. High fuel loads near communities will go unaddressed. Wildfires will become even harder to fight. More sawmills will close. The health of our land, waters and wildlife will decline. With things going wrong on the ground, some will demand that these lands be transferred to states or sold to private industry.

That’s exactly what the people in power today want. The choice of Utah for the Forest Service headquarters—home to Senator Mike Lee, who leads the charge on public land selloff, as well as to the state that is suing to try to take over millions of your public lands—reveals the administration’s true agenda.

The inevitable does not need to happen. There is one power to stop our public lands from being mismanaged to the point of selloff: It’s the outrage of the American people.

Americans overwhelmingly support public lands and want future generations to enjoy the freedoms found in them. Our public forests, rivers and deserts deserve to be treated better, and the federal land managers who work tirelessly deserve better. It’s up to us to demand it.

TRACY STONE-MANNING IS PRESIDENT OF THE WILDERNESS SOCIETY AND A CONTRIBUTOR TO WRITERS ON THE RANGE, WRITERSONTHERANGE.ORG, AN INDEPENDENT NONPROFIT DEDICATED TO SPURRING LIVELY CONVERSATION ABOUT THE WEST.

“Journalism” once reported all the facts from multiple perspectives on issues using neutral language. Then billionaires bought up the mainstream media to control the narratives using sophisticated propaganda techniques. Right-leaning “news” sources, like Fox News, myopically interpret events to appeal exclusively to that audience. Likewise, left-leaning sources, like CNN and the NYT, do the same. “Inconvenient” facts are entirely omitted. The language is crafted to provoke intense moral outrage, smothering any curiosity to investigate deeper.

In 10 years, we have a highly polarized population, each side claiming to have the “truth”. Neither side can fathom what the other side believes due to zero exposure. Neither side can even imagine they are missing anything – “They’re obviously wrong!”

Take, for example, illegal aliens: I believe the left myopically focuses on their legal and human rights (“All should be granted amnesty!”). Meanwhile, the right is myopically focused on the unfair, overwhelming tax burden and dangerous criminals (“Get them out of here!”). Resolution appears impossible.

Righteous citizens with violently opposing viewpoints, consumed by outrage, lead to chaotic conditions enabling the installation of a dictatorship: declare martial law and suspend the Constitution. Will the infiltrators succeed in provoking civil war?

Detach; investigate. Remain calm.

Kamori Cattadoris 

Newport

Differences between DJT and JC

The height of Trump (DJT) insanity and deraignment was observed last week when a picture appeared, with DJT’s approval, portraying lunatic DJT as Jesus Christ (JC) healing the sick. My thoughts as to some of the differences between the two.

JC could actually perform miracles; DJT only wishes he could.

JC was born in a manger; DJT hangs out with donkeys and pigs but was not born in a manger.

JC is a king and a God; DJT only wishes he were.

JC never fired any of his apostles; DJT has already fired two cabinet members three months into 2026.

JC is loved around the world and has been worshipped for 2,000 years; the world hates DJT and no one will worship him in the near future.

JC never broke a Commandment; DJT has broken them all.

JC was never mentioned in the Epstein files; DJT thousands of times.

One similarity between the two: I am fairly certain the Romans/ Italians hate DJT just as much as they did JC.

MAGA may praise their false god and golden idol, but for the rest of the sane world, isn’t enough enough?

Greg Hicks 

Spokane

Let’s fight corruption

Political corruption is “the use of powers by government officials or their network contacts for illegitimate private gain.” Our president has torn down part of the White House, manipulated tariffs to enrich himself and his family, bombed Iran without congressional authorization, stacked the Supreme Court to give him immunity for potential crimes, and given ultra-wealthy people Cabinet positions, ambassadorships, pardons, and dropped investigations of their crimes, as long as they are loyal to him.

Imagine the uproar if any Democratic president had done these things. Trump won’t live forever, and someday a president you don’t like will be in power. At that point, nothing will stop that president from doing the same corrupt things without consequences. Is that really a precedent we want to set?

The freedoms we have in this country are there in part to protect us from government oppression no matter what group is in power. Now those are gone – unless we fight to protect them.

Meg Lyman 

Deer Park

Vote for Jane Sauter

It seems to me that non-emergency care for non-citizens (such as illegal immigrants) should not be paid for by the citizens of our state. There was a bill H135 introduced in 2025 that was voted on, passed, and signed into law this month. Having traveled extensively, I have always had to foot the bill if I’m traveling to other countries, should I need non-emergency medical assistance. The bill and now law, makes total sense to me.

I heard Mark Sauter say he opposed this commonsense bill. In fact, in looking at his records, he frequently opposes bills that are supported by a majority of the Republican representatives. This doesn’t seem to be an issue that would need much debate. You don’t get services paid for by others.

Jane Sauter indicated she would have voted for this bill and understands that the people of Idaho support this type of approach to reign in government spending.

Jane keeps showing her commonsense regarding things needing to be fixed. I like her positive way of offering a clear solution to issues. I’ll be voting for Jane Sauter on May 19!

Sincerely Trent Oyler 

Naples, Idaho

Vote for Woodward

May matters in Idaho, because the Republican who wins in the May 19 Primary is typically the winner in the general election. We are so fortunate to have Jim Woodward as our current Idaho senator. He carefully considers each bill on its own merits, and how it will affect his constituents and his stated goals of governance, rather than being swayed by getting a “good grade” from the Idaho Freedom Foundation like his opponent does. I have listened to Jim at his regularly scheduled town halls and been impressed with his long-range outlook, investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvements. At the same time, he is fiscally responsible, opposing cuts to income or property taxes that might sound appealing but will require cuts to important programs and services that have been mandated. Reducing taxes for popularity votes while causing a budget shortfall is just not responsible government.

Jim Woodward is vice-chair of the Finance and Appropriations Committee and serves on the education and transportation committees. He has many other important committee assignments as well, as he is a hard-working and highly respected member of the legislature. I urge you to vote for our current senator, Jim Woodward, on May 19.

Kate Painter

Bonners Ferry

Recent News

Recent headline topics: Trump to Iran: I will blow an entire civilization to bits with a deadline to make a deal. Just prior to the deadline, Trump and Iran agree to a two-week ceasefire and to open the Strait of Hormuz. Trump uses the Navy to blockade the Strait. The Navy begins sweeping for mines. The US controls much of the EU’s oil. The US only allows a few tankers per day through the Strait. Squeezing Iran. The US gets no help from NATO.

Trump signs Presidential Memo-7 which declares Antifa as Domestic Terrorist Organizations. Bondi leaves DOJ handing off 8K+ ongoing fraud cases. DOJ opens an antitrust exemption case against the NFL. DNI Gabbard declassifies IC official’s conspiracy in 2019 to impeach Trump. Buried for seven years: Declassified transcripts exonerate Trump’s impeachment story. The WH put a taskforce together to go State by State looking for fraud (I hope they don’t go in alphabetical order). Gabbard declassifies Dem’s plot to frame Trump on the Ukraine call.

Trump brokers a deal for a two week ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. The Strait is fully open and the Stock Market soars, fastest rise in decades. The Dealmaker.

Glen Pierce 

Spokane/Cusick

Reelect Mark Sauter

We worked with Representative Mark Sauter this recent legislative session on a bill to clarify the Idaho Defense of Life Act. We found him to be honest, sincere and easy to work with. Mark was always ready to listen to our concerns. He will continue to work hard for his constituents. Get out and cast your vote for Mark Sauter in the Republican Primaries.

Stephen Schmid MD

Twin Falls

Robert Davis MD

Boise

Beware of false claims

No wasted words. Herndon, as usual, is spreading false claims and untruths. He brags about tax cuts when he actually only voted for one. Woodward on the other hand, voted for two income tax rate cuts, three tax rebates, an increase in the homeowner’s exemption and homeowners tax relief. He chose to vote no on last year’s tax cut as he felt it wasn’t in our (his constituents) best interest.

That proved to be right as that cut caused all kinds of problems this year.

Woodward always has our best interests steering his decisions on voting for or against bills.

Herndon wants to get rid of property tax. Now how ridiculous is that? No one likes to pay taxes, but unfortunately, it’s a necessary evil. He basically opposes school levies, another necessary way of getting needed dollars to properly run our education system, because the state does not fund education properly.

Beware of fliers filling our mailboxes telling us who to vote for. Many of these are again spreading false claims about why people should vote one way or the other. Please do your own research. But you must do it thoroughly. Don’t just go by what you hear. Check it out yourself.

Ernie and Helen Schoeffel 

Priest River

What do local Christians think about Trump’s pictures?

Now that Trump thinks he is Jesus or that he and Jesus are picture buddies, what do the Christians in our community think of Trump’s social media picture posts? Are local church leaders thinking of putting Trump’s likeness above their altars?

Trump seems jealous of Pope Leo and has a running feud with him over bombing of innocent civilians living in Trump’s enemy designated countries.

Trump rails about Iran killing protesters but then drops bombs on the Iranian people killing non-combatants in his made-up war of choice. Please identify the Christian doctrine that mandates killing your enemies. You don’t need to defend your faith with guns and bombs. What part of “Thou shall not kill” requires theocratical nuance? Is it God’s will that you kill your enemies before they can kill you?

Trump imagines the office of president as some kind of religious or divinely inspired position. He is much like the Supreme Leader of Iran who believes that God gives the president or leader the right of life or death. Think about that when blindly supporting a president who wants to rule over the entire world.

President first and country last.

Pete Scobby

Newport

Letter writer doesn’t provide evidence

In response to the April 15th letter “Military kills on supporters behalf,” the author draws another false analogy this time a car dealership symbolizing Iran. It is uncommon for car dealerships to take disciplinary action against people protesting with negative remarks about the dealership. However, there is no credible evidence to suggest that such actions have resulted in executions of such protesters by the dealership. The assertion, “That requires using hundreds of nuclear weapons to kill all 93 million Iranian people,” lacks substantiation. The writer’s failure to provide evidence to support their claims screams of their constant inexperience in the subject matter.

“Trump voters have the blood of innocent civilians on their hands.” In this instance, the writer exhibits a cognitive bias through their use of a whataboutism. But it isn’t unusual for this writer as they have shown a constant ability to bow before the political golden calf.

“Our military kills women and children on your behalf, making you complicit in the act.” The absurdity of the unfounded statement boggles the mind. The accusation against our military forces intentionally targets civilian populations is vile and doing it for a particular voting public is truly ludicrous.

Renee Webster 

Newport

History shows freedom doesn’t disappear overnight

After the recent rally, two signs held by attendees stayed with me because they reflected concerns many Americans share about protecting our freedoms and our families.

The first sign read: “Hitler didn’t start with camps.

He started with banning books, targeting the press, blaming immigrants, creating enemies from neighbors, controlling the courts and judges, attacking workers’ rights, spreading lies and conspiracy theories, using religion as a weapon, replacing truth with propaganda.”

It was a reminder that the erosion of liberty starts with limits on information, government overreach, and efforts to control what people can say, read, or believe. Historians have noted that these early warning signs often appear subtle until they accumulate into something more dangerous. The message was simple: stay vigilant in defending the Constitution, free speech, and the institutions that keep government power in check.

The second sign read: “If only children were protected like the Epstein files.”

Many Americans feel that children’s safety, education, and well‑being should rise above partisan fights.

Protecting kids should be a unifying national priority.

Both signs carried the same plea: pay attention.

Ask questions. Defend truth. Protect children. A strong nation is defined not by empty promises, but by the actions its citizens take to preserve truth and accountability.

Gloria Jean Wells 

Newport

Over the past decade, the connection between firefighting and cancer has grown too significant to overlook. Beside the immediate dangers of flames and smoke, firefighters are frequently exposed to perilous substances that can embed in their bodies long after a call ends. Consistent with this, national data revealed that these personnel have a 9% elevated cancer risk and 14% surge in related fatalities compared to the general population.

This threat extends not only to civilian departments but also to current, former and retired military personnel trained to provide fire protection, technical rescue, and other emergency response.

For those serving the Pend Oreille River Valley this issue is compounded by rural conditions where resources and long-term health monitoring may already be limited. To better tackle these concerns, the National Firefighter Registry for Cancer was launched in 2023 as a nationwide effort to track connected exposures and health outcomes. Yet its impact depends on participation—making it essential that firefighters in smaller and rural communities are not left out of this critical dataset.

The occupational hazards of firefighting are not always immediate or visible. Beyond the urgency of extinguishing blazes lies a quieter, cumulative threat shaped by repeated contact with toxic substances released during emergencies.

For example, burning buildings, industrial facilities, or natural landscapes usually generate many carcinogens, like volatile and semi-volatile organics, lead, heavy metals, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and aldehydes. And as these pollutants typically come in solid, liquid, or gaseous form, firefighters can easily inhale or ingest them after every response. More disconcertingly, these risks become even more complex within military settings, where operations and training have long depended on specialized, chemical-intensive equipment.

In fact, as early as the 1960s, the armed forces had already incorporated aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) into standard fire suppression protocols, notwithstanding its PFAS compositions— synthetic chemicals that can persist in the ecosystem indefinitely. As a result, reports indicate that more than 700 military installations nationwide have documented contaminated groundwater, including Fairchild Air Force Base.

In addition to this, the very environments in which military firefighters operate are often laden with hazardous materials that can be discharged when combusted.

Confined settings such as naval vessels, for instance, house a dense concentration of fuel systems, electrical and insulation components, solvents, and other industrial substances. As such, when fires occur, these sites can produce a highly toxic atmosphere—releasing asbestos fibers, benzene, carbon dioxide, and numerous other chemical residues that may be absorbed without immediate detection, thereby exacerbating the overall exposure risk.

Efforts to better understand occupational risks in the fire service greatly hinge on one critical element: comprehensive data collection. The National Firefighter Registry for Cancer serves this purpose by bringing together detailed information from firefighters nationwide—including those in the military. Through this centralized approach, researchers can uncover exposure patterns, evaluate health outcomes, and generate evidence that supports more effective protective measures and operational standards. Also, these insights carry policy implications, particularly in shaping access to benefits. While certain conditions have already been granted presumptive coverage—allowing them to obtain benefits seamlessly—others, like those PFAS-linked, still require individuals to establish a direct service connection, highlighting the need for stronger scientific validation.

Yet even with its noble intention, this initiative cannot prosper without broader participation from all firefighters. As of April 10, 2026, the registry has already enrolled nearly 47,200 personnel, with almost 1,200 and 360 responders from Washington and Idaho, respectively. Although notable, this figure represents only a fraction of the nation’s firefighting force, which exceeds one million individuals. ‘Bridging this gap will require sustained outreach, stronger institutional support, and the integration of registry awareness into training, medical evaluations, and transition programs—boosting participation and protection for those on the front lines.

CRISTINA JOHNSON SERVES AS A VETERAN ADVOCATE AT THE ASBESTOS SHIPS ORGANIZATION, A NONPROFIT THAT RAISES AWARENESS OF VETERANS’ EXPOSURE TO TOXIC SUBSTANCES.

1). There is a difference between the God of Nature and the God of Religion. How do you keep your connection to Nature?

2). There are forces that are using Divide and Conquer. What do you do to Unite and be in Community?

3). There are forces that are using propaganda, subliminal programming and mind control.

What do you do to avoid or limit: TV, social media, gaming and technology?

4). We vote everyday through our time and our resources. What do you do to avoid or limit your support of companies that are working to tighten their control on humanity?

5). It is possible that everything authentic in our life has an artificial hijack. What do you do to hone your capabilities of discernment?

6). If there is authentic euphoria, there is also artificial euphoria.

(Think Beatlemania). Would you be able to discern the difference and find your authenticity when the artificial is playing financial games and ‘making you happy’?

7). What do you do to maintain your health, family, friendships, and community so we can navigate this storm together?

Stacy Cossey Priest River

All about Epstein files

Here we are in a stupid war no one wanted, big Trump. Why did he do this? He wants people to stop talking about the Epstein Files and his involvement in it!

To all those people that still believe him you need to wake up and listen to him. It is pathetic that he wants a draft to get more young people killed.

Our gas prices are higher than ever before, Trump did it. Grocery prices are crazy, Trump did it. More people are going to homeless from the partial government shutdown.

Make sure Democrats get control of our country to save it from him.

We can’t allow these crooks to skate off after all they have done, they need to is to look be held accountable!

Jeannie Hutchins Newport

Williams has my vote

Please don’t forget our history.

The value of looking backward before going forward has been repeated to us often. So let’s talk about the Bonner County Commissioner meetings. Does anyone remember how public input was shut down by the former commissioners? Commissioner Asia Williams made countless motions to overcome this, but the other two commissioners never seconded her motion. Thus, her motion could not go forward. So frustrating!

But she persevered and now, with new commissioners on board that have the same viewpoint, public input is promoted. Presently, public input is invited after each departmental presentation as well as at the end of the meeting. Thank you, Commissioner Asia Williams.

And please don’t forget the departmental chats that Commissioner Williams instituted.

Constituents wanted to know more about each department. So she invited them to an 8– 9 a.m. chat with those interested. (the building opens at 9 a.m. usually).

Oh yes, and what about the Saturday townhalls for the departments. This is quite a bit above and beyond what a commissioner does. Yet, she is just that. She is outstanding. Thank you again Commissioner Asia Williams. You have certainly secured my vote on Tuesday, May 19!

Kristine Logue Blanchard

TDS

As our politics and economic conditions continue to deteriorate, Trump supporters are relying increasingly on the “Trump Derangement Syndrome” (TDS) to dismiss criticism of their President.

No full Epstein file disclosure, foreign war, inflation jumping up, tariffs declared illegal by Supreme Court, cutbacks on social benefits - a lot to legitimately criticize.

All of this is driven by a convicted felon president who describes the opposition party as “scum, vermin, enemies of the United States”.

I think the Trump fan club has run out of factual points to debate.

Enter TDS. Each time I see this lame excuse used to dismiss criticism of Trump’s policies and vulgar behavior, I think “how silly is this”? And do you remember all those F Biden signs we had? Talk about the frying pan calling the kettle black!

Sandy Nichols Newport

Dear Congressman Baumgartner

The misdirected attack on Iran does not benefit Eastern Washington, must less the entire country.

As a farmer, fertilizer costs, fuel and anything involving the use of petroleum is already being impacted.

My visit to the grocery store today, milk has risen 60 cents per gallon in the past week.

Trump has provided an only ever-changing reasoning for this attack on Iran. The vast majority of the country does not support this war. Compound all of this the longterm damage being inflicted upon our country’s reputation in the international world. A reputation being destroyed that will take years to recover.

“Bomb them back to the stone age” is not a new comment from a misguided leader. Geneal Le-May made this statement in 1965 concerning Vietnam. We know the result.

It is time for Congress to “look in the mirror” and take control of this debacle. Supporting your party leader is understandable in normal times. Now is the time to stand up for our country and uphold the essential elements of our democracy. A “photo op” in your newsletter does not negate the negative economic impact for Eastern Washington or our world’s reputation.

No war.

Robert W. Schutte Newport

Military kills on supporters behalf

Imagine a Trump voter imitating Trump’s Iran civilization ending threat going to a car dealership and demanding they sell him a car for $$ by noon, or he will pull his open carry weapon and kill everyone at the dealership.

He then shoots out some windows. The police are called and the Trump voter says he was just negotiating and wasn’t serious about killing everyone.

To be clear, Trump can’t end the 6,000-year-old Iranian civilization in one night by blowing up bridges and power plants. That requires using hundreds of nuclear weapons to kill all 93 million Iranian people.

One day Trump is going to do what he says so outrageously.

Our military will launch nukes on Trump’s order. Dropping bombs on countries and killing or kidnapping their leaders isn’t negotiating. Trump voters have the blood of innocent civilians on their hands. You put a deranged person in office, and his bombs can’t tell the difference between combatants and children who can’t harm us. Our military kills women and children on your behalf making you complicit in the act.

Soon, America will be dropping bombs on Cuba, or another country Trump wants to claim for his personal empire of conquest.

Pete Scobby Newport

Letter writer misdirects

Over and over again, the writer in the April 1 letter, “Dying for presidential vanity,” attempts to misdirect readers using confusing analogies by assertions that are unrelated to my original statement and continues to omit consequential information.

Examples: “We recently did that with Venezuela; Trump deposited $500 million from Venezuela in a Qatar account.” The writer failed to mention that, as reported by US News, the Venezuelan people received the $500 million in February.

In addition, they write: “She can process 18-year-old boys for induction and foreign war deployment.” The statement appears to be both unsettling and misogynistic. In the context of Trump’s “Imperial American Empire,” it is perplexing why he would deny women the right to be drafted, individuals with asthma, and even those with “bone spurs.” If he assumed the role of a monarch, he could issue another authoritarian executive order without congressional approval.

The writer demanded evidence of drug cartel vessels and their occupants in their letter titled “Show us the proof.” Ironically, they consistently fail to provide their own evidence. In their letter “Money determines level of justice,” they asked if a billionaire has ever been executed or imprisoned for life. Yes, just Google it… Renee Webster Newport

Letters should be no longer than 200 words. Letters should be typed and submitted to The Miner office no later than 5 p.m. Friday for publication the following Wednesday. No letter will be published unless it is signed by at least one individual, even if the letter represents the view of a group. The letter must include a telephone number and address for authentication. The Miner reserves the right to edit letters. Political letters will not be published the last issue before an election. Letters will be printed as space allows.

Curtis Bedore Blanchard

Hospital bond untenable

As we consider the proposed $51 million hospital bond, it’s essential to begin with the realities of Hospital District 1.

Our community includes a large share of retirees, fixed-income households, and working families already stretched by rising living costs. For many, even modest tax increases are not abstract—they affect groceries, heating bills, and the ability to remain in their homes.

We recognize the need to keep our medical facilities up to date— not only to care for our aging population but to attract people who might consider living in our area, knowing we have great medical facilities nearby.

The district estimates a tax impact of $1.47 per $1,000 of assessed value. For a typical home in our area—often assessed between $250,000 and $350,000—that means an annual cost of roughly $368 to $515. Over the full 30‑year life of the bond, that adds up to $11,000 to $15,450 per household. That is a significant long‑term financial commitment for residents with limited financial flexibility!

Improving access to care matters. But so does ensuring that the people who will pay for it can reasonably afford the cost.

As a rural district with modest incomes and aging residents, we must weigh need and affordability with clear eyes.

Ernie Hood Newport

‘No Kings’ rallies peaceful, non-threatening

As The Miner reported last week, the Newport No Kings rally on March 28 drew 150 protesters by actual head count. This is an excellent turn out. And yet, I’ve heard from several people that they were discouraged from attending by the aggressive social media posts that threatened the participants in some way.

The rallies at the Big Wheel are peaceful, legal, and non-threatening. The police are notified of the events and participants are given directions about where to park and where to stand.

There may or may not be music, chants, costumes, or treats. The Big Wheel area is cleaned up afterwards and participants go home feeling like they are not alone with their concern for our country and our democracy.

In other words, there is nothing to justify the bullying that happens on social media prior to an event. At No Kings III, there was only one individual who wished to debate our stand on the issues, and he was very polite in his discussion with participants. The only way to stand up to a bully is to call his or her bluff. So, when another rally is planned, ignore the social media bullying and join us.

Martha Nichols Newport

Jane Sauter champions children’s needs

Children’s care needs to be left to their families and churches. In 2025,Senate Bill 1206 appropriated funds to Health and Welfare for Early Learning and Development for the Developmentally Disabled. Giving money to the state to handle our children’s care can easily cause corruption like what we have seen in Minneapolis. The wrong Sauter voted for this last year! Jane Sauter would have the foresight to see that children’s care needs to stay firmly under the control of their family. This is taxpayer-controlled federal dollars that can create a dependency on government instead of strengthening families. Vote for families to have control of their own children’s needs. Vote May 19th, for Jane Sauter!

Maureen Paterson Priest River

Where were ‘No Kings’ when Fauci, others ran the country?

It’s interesting that they can specify a single day and ‘No Kings’ protests pop up in cities around the country yet they can’t show up on a specified day to vote. Where were the ‘No Kings” protests when Fauci was running the world, Obama; buy my insurance or get fined and Biden; take the vax or lose your job? Trump Derangement Syndrome.

The 14th Amendment was passed to make citizens out of the freed slaves. Here for several generations and no country to call home. In Wong Kim Arks case, his parents were established and lived in America for decades.

They couldn’t become citizens because of our racist mindset towards the Chinese at the time.

Right now there are over 500 Chinese companies helping facilitate birthright citizenship.

They bring late term pregnancies to America (birth tourism) to have their babies and then take them back to China to raise them as communists. When they reach adulthood, back to America.

Infiltration. In 2023, 350K (9%) of babies were illegal. Let that sink in.

If my neighbor’s cow jumps the fence and gives birth in my yard, it’s still not my cow or my calf.

Glen Pierce Spokane/Cusick

Letter writer resides in own echo chamber

The author of the letter titled “Dying for Presidential Vanity” appears to have taken my letter personally, particularly when they presented a feeble ad hominem argument. While I concur that registration is mandatory, I never contested that assertion or the presidential power of military actions. Instead, I clarified the fact that the military is currently a volunteer organization. Here again, the writer, as they always do, overloading readers with fabrications and underwhelming with actual evidence. For instance, their inaccuracies regarding the statements of the congressmen and the unsubstantiated assertion that enriched uranium is not used to make nuclear bombs, which contradict both the DOE and NRC.

They possess their own perspective, but what grounds this viewpoint? This phenomenon arises when individuals reside within their own echo chambers. Like a child with a box of Legos, they have a Lego here, a Lego there, never connecting the Legos. Let me be candid, the sole reason for their composition of this letter, directed specifically at me, was the negative impact it had on their self-esteem due to my inquiry regarding the glorious title of “Guest Opinion.” I stand by my opinion that they are not a guest; they have become a resident.

Renee Webster Newport

Met Mavalwalla at Newport ‘No Kings’ rally

At the No Kings Rally in Newport, Washington I met Bajun Mavalwalla. Look at PBS. org/newshour, March 27, “Army veteran faces conspiracy charges after participating in anti-ICE protest,” about his son. Bajun Sr. is a retired intelligence officer with three bronze stars. His wife, son and son’s partner are veterans. Senior and Junior served in Afghanistan. Bajun Jr. was at a non-violent anti-ICE protest in June then later arrested by the FBI for conspiracy and faces six years in prison for protesting to ICE for grabbing Legal asylum applicants. Bajan Sr. is worried about his son; also that he will be recalled from retirement to be court martialed.

POTUS says rallies aren’t important except to protestors and reporters. Eight million protestors were watched across the world by millions more. In Newport hundreds of cars gave waves, smiles, thumbs up compared to a few one finger salutes from old and young men. The young guys are those who will be drafted if Trump’s war escalates so why don’t they enlist now with all five of Trump’s kids? Trump actually attempted campaign fund raising at the transference of dead soldiers who came home recently.

To the many veterans at the rally, thank you.

Betty Gardner Priest River

As the public information officer for Pend Oreille Public Utility District, it’s my responsibility to make sure that information about rates is clear, accurate and easy to understand.

The PUD’s Board of Commissioners recently approved a 2.5% adjustment to revenue in an effort to keep pace with inflation and rising operating costs while maintaining system reliability and safety. This does not mean every customer’s kilowatt-hour rate, or total bill, increases by exactly 2.5%.

A revenue adjustment simply means the PUD must collect 2.5% more revenue overall to cover rising costs. How that translates to an individual customer’s bill depends on usage and rate class. For a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month, the expected increase is about $2.24 per month, or 2.2%. A customer using 2,020 kWh per month can expect an increase of $4.53 per month, or 2.7%.

A recent letter to the editor focused on the change to the energy charge, showing an approximate 3.3% increase in that specific component. While that figure is accurate for the energy portion of the residential rate, it does not represent the total bill. A customer’s bill has multiple components, including a flat monthly service availability charge that has not changed, so the overall impact varies based on how much electricity is used. We are expecting that a residential customer will see an average increase of $3.25 on their monthly bill, but the total could be less or more than that. The PUD has explained how these numbers work through public meetings, communications and a public hearing, and we remain committed to providing clear and accurate information.

We’re here to help if you have questions about how this change impacts your bill. Just give us a call or swing by our office, and we’ll be glad to walk through the details.

We also know that any increase matters, especially at a time when costs seem to be rising in nearly every part of daily life. Our goal is to keep any rate adjustments as minimal and predictable as possible while continuing to provide safe, reliable service to our community.

It seems that the hypocrite- in-chief wants to deny all of us the ability to vote by mail but doesn’t want that to apply to himself. What a loser. Two articles caught my attention on the same day this week. The Pentagon wants another $200 billion to fight the war against Iran that President Bone Spurs keeps telling us has already been won. The other item was the mayor of Chewelah going to D.C. to petition for funds for their water system that is in dire need of repair. Can you imagine how many rural water systems and waste management systems could be upgraded and repaired for $200 billion? Priorities folks, it’s all about priorities. What’s more important to you?

Steve Bennett Newport

One voice of sanity

In response to the question “Who do you think leads the Democratic Party today?” Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) said, “I think that TDS (Trump Derangement Syndrome) is the leader right now. You know, right now our party is governed by the TDS, and now it’s made it virtually impossible, without being punished, as a Democrat, to agree something’s good. Or ‘I agree with the other side.’ And I would define that by Epic Fury.” I’m amazed — one Real Democrat in the crowd of politicians infesting the hill!

In contrast, another prominent Democrat, James Carville, said (edited for profanity), “You’re right, I got Trump Derangement Syndrome. I hate the (expletive). And you know what? I don’t wanna get rid of it. I don’t wanna get better. I wanna get worse. I wanna hate him more. I pray to God in heaven … Lord, I’m your vessel on this earth. Pray for the people that listen to this. We want more. We wanna hate the son of a (expletive) so much that we can’t see straight!” I’d say he personifies the TDS illness — praying for hate, no less. So sad what propaganda is doing to our culture and relationships! Kamori Cattadoris Newport

Why no Baumgartner town hall?

I was reading back issues of The Miner recently when I found an editorial dated March 19, 2025, complimenting Michael Baumgartner for holding a town hall in Spokane. The editor even invited Baumgartner to come to Pend Orielle County to hold a town hall. Sadly, he has not. In fact, that March 2025 event in Spokane was his last public appearance that was not by invitation only.

Not surprising. He faced tough questioning then, and his inaction and silence in the face of the administration’s onslaught against norms, law and basic dignity has only gotten worse. He says he is running for re-election, but you would never know it. He acts as a rubber stamp for Trump even when his own constituents pay more for healthcare, gas, electricity, housing and travel. And that was before the war Baumgartner refused to consider voting for in Congress.

I’m trying to imagine how he will campaign. Town halls — doubtful. Walk in a local parade — that’s a knee-slapper. Issue press releases offering empty platitudes of support for farmers and local businesses? He’s doing that already, ignoring how his votes have created the problems those folks face. Empty words from an empty suit.

Roger Haick Loon Lake

What are they thinking?

The hypocrisy by some of the leftist, untutored opinion writers has become unsuitable, impractical and hopelessly laughable. Their weekly attacks on President Trump are without merit. Claims that the attack on Iran was not needed are frankly ridiculous; It has been needed for 40 years, to the point where all of Iran’s neighboring countries supported the action taken by the U.S. and Israel. The procedure has been carried out with amazing results in a very short period of time. It is nearing the point where the Iranian people have the opportunity to retake control of their government and rejoin the conventional world. The complaints from the left about high gas prices are hypocritical and petty after the previous administration’s highest inflation in 40 years, which we are still recovering from. TDS is still running rampant. Democrat politicians can’t deal with Trump’s successes. They oppose all he does because they are not for the American people — they are for themselves.

K.C. Hunt Newport

April 11 town hall

It is easy to get wrapped up or bogged down in the national news, international war reports and political exaggeration. However, we all live in local communities, and those communities have entities that may be more central to our day to day lives than what is taking place across the nation or the world.

There will be a Community Town Hall to focus on important issues right here at home. At 1 p.m. April 11 we will have the opportunity to hear presentations on how our system of voting works and the importance of our local newspaper.

Marianne Nichols, Pend Oreille County auditor, will walk through the voting process in Washington state, explaining the checks and balances used to protect every ballot. Michelle Nedved, publisher of The Newport Miner, will discuss why journalism is more important now than ever and what the future of community journalism looks like. Written questions from the audience will be taken after each presentation.

This second Town Hall will be held at the Newport Public Utility District conference room accessible from Pine Street. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Martha Nichols Newport

Winning

Some headlines from the week: Senate confirms first-ever Assistant AG to seek out fraud in federal and state governments. LA jury finds Meta/Google/YouTube/Tik-Tok liable in social media addiction case — the first of many. General Flynn wins his case against the government, $1.2 million. Jack Smith secretly subpoenaed two years of phone records on Cabinet members.

International Olympic Committee says no men in women’s sports. Lititia James (get Trump) is hit with two more criminal charges in Florida and Illinois. Trump signs Emergency Order to pay TSA agents (Dems care more about illegals than citizens). Court backs ICE, no bail for illegals. Six Muslim Nations make joint statement against Iran.

Trump to become first sitting President with his signature on US currency. White House launches “News” Apps on their website. You can now get news in real time, no filters. Delta to suspend special services for Congress members until the shutdown ends. Trump and Iran are in talks, even as Trump moves more leverage into the region. Iran will make a deal if they know what’s good for them. Twenty-two countries are coming to the Strait to help out. Trump is moving the world in the right direction.

Glen Pierce Spokane/Cusick

Are we happy?

Have you heard of the world happiness report? This report is published by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, in partnership with Gallup, the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, and an independent editorial board. Spoiler alert — the US does not even rank in the top 10. How can that be?

According to the report, “Happiness rankings are determined by analyzing comprehensive Gallup polling data from 149 countries in six particular categories: gross domestic product per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make your own life choices, generosity of the general population and perceptions of internal and external corruption levels.”

Finland took top honors — for the 10th year in a row, followed in order by Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, Israel, the Netherlands and Norway. The U.S. ranks 25th.

Most of these countries have mixed socialist economies — progressive tax rates, high level of government services — things vilified by U.S. conservatives.

We’ve all heard of the growing wealth gap in the U.S. The “cut taxes” mantra promoted by Republicans means the rich keep getting richer and the poor poorer; money has been flowing from the bottom 40% to the top 1%.

Are we happier?

Sandy Nichols Newport Dying for presidential vanity

LETTERS:

Renee Webster should be on the Newport Draft Board when Trump and his rubber stamp congress reinstate the military draft. She can process 18-year-old boys for induction and foreign war deployment. How does the Trump Imperial American Empire rule the world without a draft?

America must invade and occupy oil-producing countries and route their oil revenues to our treasury. We recently did that with Venezuela; Trump deposited $500 million from Venezuela in a Qatar account.

Trump wants $200 billion more for his vanity wars of conquest.

Who else are we going to invade beside Venezuela and Iran: Canada, Mexico, Greenland, Cuba and Columbia?

Presidential abuse of American troops since 9/11 is horrible with devastating family misery. Dismissing that abuse as voluntary is sickening.

The USS Gerald Ford Aircraft Carrier has been at sea for 11 months without the crew returning to see their families. Renee, I am sure they volunteered for that, and you can dismiss it along with the still-active Selective Service Act. Registering is not voluntary if you are a male 18–25 years old.

It’s one thing to die or be injured in combat protecting America. Doing it for presidential vanity is wrong and immoral.

Pete Scobby Newport

They are unique potted plants which aren’t suited for cut-flower arrangements and disappear when churches move back to ordinary times. While both are the icons, poinsettias have a longer shelf-life: Thanksgiving to Christmas. Easter lilies have a three-week window: late Lent and Easter Week.

Each year more than half of the 10 million Easter lily plants are bought for religious use because to Christians, it is a symbol of the resurrection of Christ. However, as beautiful as they are, sightseers don’t flock to fields to enjoy the spectacular sea of white blossoms like they swarm tulip fields.

One reason is tulip fields, hotbeds for “agritourism,” are found along Interstate 5 and an hour’s drive from Portland or Seattle. Easter lily farms are 250 miles from Portland and 380 miles from San Francisco along scenic Highway 101, a two-lane winding coastal highway hugging the Pacific Ocean.

The primary explanation is lilies are grown to supply bulbs to local nurseries where operators pot, grow and ship them. Easter lilies are the fourth largest potted plant crop in the U.S., trailing poinsettias, hydrangeas and azaleas.

Once the fields are in full bloom, farmers clip the flowers to force nutrients to bulbs. The white flowers are scattered on plantations’ ground and quickly decompose. Simply, they are not as visually pleasing as rows of standing colorful tulips which generally last through April.

They have delicate flowers shaped like trumpets and are aromatic. They are not suited for cut-flower arrangements but stand alone in colorfully wrapped pots. Potted lilies are also transplanted in moist drained flower beds filled with rich soil.

Easter lilies thrive in the cool, foggy climate which stretches from Brookings, Oregon, south to Crescent City, California, where 95% of the world’s supply is grown. The deep green plants flourish in the shadows of the majestic Coastal Redwoods. The world’s Easter lily capital is Smith River, Oregon.

There are 14 million bulbs harvested yearly from family-owned farms which combined cover 600 acres.

LILIES:

Today, four family-owned companies’ fields straddle the California-Oregon border. Easter lily bulbs typically take three to four years to grow large enough for commercial use. Processing involves carefully digging the bulbs, treating to prevent fungus and diseases, chilling, replanting and then forcing them to bloom in time for Easter.

Lilium longiflorum is known as the Easter lily. It is not native to the Pacific Northwest; Its origins are traced to a small chain of islands in southern Japan and Taiwan known as the Ryukyu Archipelago.

Japan was the primary world supplier of bulbs prior to World War II; however, after the Pearl Harbor attack, the Japanese market was severed and production shifted to the Smith River Valley.

Most fields lie between Highway 101 and the shores of the Pacific Ocean. The white-flowered fields are every bit as striking to the eye as the multi-colored tulip fields in western Washington and Oregon, however shortlived.

This is the time of year sightseers book tours to tulip fields in western Washington and Oregon. Tulips are in full bloom during April and May. The largest event is the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival which brought in more than $83 million in 2024 and attracted 63,000 “agritourists.”

While the tulip fields in Washington’s Skagit Valley near LaConner have Mt. Baker as a backdrop, in Oregon near Woodburn, Mt. Hood and Cascade peaks are in the background. Easter lily plantations are most picturesque during sunrises and sunsets over the Pacific Ocean on a clear day.

However, photographers must scurry to find fields in full bloom and hopefully find sunshine —timing and luck are everything.

DON C. BRUNELL IS A BUSINESS ANALYST, WRITER, AND COLUMNIST. HE RETIRED AS PRESIDENT OF THE ASSOCIATION OF WASHINGTON BUSINESS, THE STATE’S OLDEST AND LARGEST BUSINESS ORGANIZATION AND NOW LIVES IN VANCOUVER. HE CAN BE CONTACTED AT THEBRUNELLS@MSN.COM.

Federal State

President Donald J. Trump (R) The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington DC 20500 Comments: 202-456-1111 Switchboard: 202-456-1414 www.WhiteHouse.gov/Contact

Senator Patty Murray (D)

154 Senate Russell Office Building Washington D.C. 20510 Phone: (202) 224-2621 Spokane office: 920 W. Riverside Ave., Suite 245 Spokane WA 99201 Phone: (509) 624-9515 Murray.Senate.gov/write-to-patty

Senator Maria Cantwell (D)

511 Hart Senate Office Building Washington D.C. 20510 Phone: (202) 224-3441 Spokane office: 920 W. Riverside, No. 697 Spokane WA 99201 Phone: (509) 353-2507 Cantwell.Senate.gov/contact/email

Rep. Michael Baumgartner (R) 124 Cannon House Office Bldg. Washington D.C. 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2006 Spokane Office: 528 E. Spokane Falls Blvd., No. 115 Spokane WA 99202 Phone: (509) 353-2374 Governor Bob Ferguson (D) Office of the Governor PO Box 40002 Olympia, WA 98504-0002 360-902-4111 Relay operators for the deaf or hard of hearing, dial 7-1-1 www.governor.wa.gov

Legislative District 7 - Position 1 Rep. Andrew Engell (R) 122 C Legislative Building PO Box 40600 Olympia, WA 98504-0600 Phone: (360) 786-7908 Email: andrew.engell@leg.wa.gov 303 Corbett Creek Rd. Colville WA 99114

Legislative District 7 - Position 2 Rep. Hunter Abell (R) 122B Legislative Building PO Box 40600 Olympia, WA 98504-0600 Phone: (360) 786-7988 Email: hunter.abell@leg.wa.gov

State Senator - Legislative District 7 Shelly Short INB240 PO Box 40407 Olympia WA 98501-0407 Phone: (360) 786-7612 Shellyshort.src.wastateleg.org/ contact-me

Washington Legislative Hotline 1-800-562-6000 During session, weekdays 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Legislative homepage: www.leg.wa.gov

Letters should be no longer than 200 words. Letters should be typed and submitted to The Miner office no later than 5 p.m. Friday for publication the following Wednesday. No letter will be published unless it is signed by at least one individual, even if the letter represents the view of a group. The letter must include a telephone number and address for authentication. The Miner reserves the right to edit letters. Political letters will not be published the last issue before an election. Letters will be printed as space allows.

Good day. Or should I say good grief? Everyday now you notice the price of gas going up. I said about a month or so ago I witnessed $3.29 in Oldtown, Idaho?

Earlier today the price was $3.69, I believe.

In Newport prices $4.75 I think. I don’t believe I’ve seen a price that high since around 2012 or so when I was in Seattle.

To all the Republicans out there just remember Trump did that!

Prices now are all on him. This is all because he wants to distract from the Epstein files. He decided why not bomb Iran since nobody else has. His behavior is absolutely repulsive. One of the funniest things I hear him saying on social media is Democrats will find some reason to impeach me if we don’t win the midterms. There is a list of reasons longer than my arm to impeach that worthless bum. Americans aren’t that stupid, well he did get elected, which does make me wonder.

Jeannie Hutchins Newport

Trump’s report card:

No more involvement in foreign wars Bring down grocery prices on day 1 Bring down inflation Bring back manufacturing to US Deport only immigrants with criminal records Release all Epstein files Grade: FFFFFF, but we do not want you to repeat this year Sandy Nichols Newport

Electric rates more than 2.5%

“PUD electric rates going up 2.5%.” Well, not exactly. As long as the lights stay on, we ratepayers care far more about OUR expenses than the PUD’s revenue. It’s clear that effective April 1, we will pay 0.0682 cents for a kilowatt for energy, instead of the 0.066 cents we pay now. Do the math: 0.0022 cents more is a rate increase of three and onethird percent, and it’s the same for all of us. ALL residential ratepayers will be paying 3.3% more for the electrical energy they use, even if the net result is only 2.5% more revenue for the PUD.

How much additional revenue is that? How much is currently in reserves? Those would be interesting numbers. PUD staff will readily tell you, but you’ll probably never see them in rate increase press releases.

The Miner should highlight such things for us. Adequate revenue and money in reserve is certainly prudent for a utility, and PUD finance staff no doubt tell the commission how much they need and want. It is the Commissioners’ job to judge if those numbers are appropriate and set policy accordingly. And everyone should be honest: it is a 3.3% residential rate increase!

Dan Peterson Diamond Lake

Trump strategy

Trump said today that we will be winding down in Iran soon.

‘Our objectives are almost met.’

The entire Middle East didn’t want Iran with a nuclear weapon. Nobody but the US was big enough to do it. But look at how Trump is reshaping the region.

Iran without a WMD will help bring peace to the Middle East.

Trump asked NATO to patrol the Strait of Hormuz and nobody from NATO raised their hand.

The US spends billions on NATO. Trump is finding out who our allies really are. Now Japan, India and probably Saudi Arabia will be moving in to patrol the Strait. He even asked China. If China comes in, can you imagine the optics? He is shifting spheres of influence. He is enlarging their footprint while reducing ours.

By moving them into the Middle East/Asia region, they can take responsibility for it while we back out. It will reduce their footprint in areas like Panama, Venezuela and Cuba. If it works out like it looks like it could, Trump would be reshaping the geopolitical world.

Maybe that was Trump’s strategy to bring peace to the world?

Genius, if it works.

Glen Pierce Spokane/Cusick

Iran could just buy nuke

The USA/Israel war against Iran continues and we see oil and gas refineries being blown up by bombs, missiles and drones. We are shooting ourselves in the foot by burning up the world supply of oil related energy. Decreasing supply means increasing the consumer cost of the remaining oil. How does destroying world oil and gas production prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon?

Enriched uranium is used to power nuclear reactors and not to make a nuclear bomb. Only one nuclear bomb was made with Uranium and that was the bomb the USA dropped on Hiroshima.

Now plutonium is used to make nuclear weapons.

In simple terms Iran can’t make a nuclear weapon with uranium large enough to wipe out Israel or any large metro area in the USA. During the Manhattan Project of WW-II, America was only able to make one bomb using around 1% of the total electrical energy production of the USA. The uranium core for one bomb cost $103 million in 1945 dollars ($1.8 billion today).

If Iran wanted nuclear weapons, they could buy nukes from North Korea. Instead they messed around for 20+ years stringing the USA down the path to another useless Middle-East war.

Pete Scobby Newport

Op-ed wrong about Iran

It is perplexing why a weekly writer of biased letters is given the opportunity to express their grievances in the guest opinion section, other than they exceeded the 200-word limit. In my opinion this letter was unrelated to the breakfast they attended, but, it was more likely intended to disparage the congressman by having them the subject of questionable accusations. For instance, Baumgartner did not assert “that Iran-backed militants were responsible for the deaths of at least 603 Americans in Iraq between 2003 and 2011.”

The March 11 article stated, “The Pentagon said in 2019 that Iran-backed militants were responsible for the deaths of at least 603 Americans in Iraq between 2003 and 2011.”

In addition, since the Islamic Revolution of 1979, “no other terrorist regime has claimed more American lives,” this according to the congressman.

To clarify, the perpetrators of the September 11th attacks were all members of Al-Qaeda, a terrorist militant organization, not a political regime. Therefore, it is inaccurate to equate them with a regime. While Iran didn’t explicitly help before 9/11, it was found that Al-Qaeda leaders sought and were granted refuge there afterward. Lastly, don’t worry; the military service is currently voluntary.

Renee Webster Newport

State shouldn’t pay for D.C. blunder

The United States is at a state of war with Iran. Donald Trump is trying to label this as something that is “not war”; therefore, not requiring Congressional authorization. U.S. service members have been killed. A U.S. submarine has sunk an Iranian warship in international waters.

The administration has been in contact with defense contractors to increase production of arms.

This goes beyond any of the ever-shifting rationale from the administration for this military action.

When asked about this issue, Congressman Michael Baumgartner offers only historical perspective about the evil that is Iran. He has once again knelt before the throne and allowed Donald Trump to engage the United States military without Congressional approval.

When commenting on the spike in gasoline prices caused by this war, Congressman Baumgartner’s suggestion was that the State of Washington should revise its tax structure.

Why is it Washington State’s responsibility to pay for Washington D.C.’s multi-billion-dollar blunder?

This administration has taken the stance that it is better to ask forgiveness by going to court, rather than permission though the Congress. Hold them responsible with your vote this November. J.R. Wyatt Elk

The Prescription Drug Assistance Foundation (PDAF) assists Washington State residents with inadequate prescription drug coverage, even if they have private insurance, Medicaid, or a plan on the healthcare exchange. PDAF makes medications available to low to moderate income, uninsured, and underinsured Washingtonians at no or reduced cost.

Contact them at 509-981-6420, 509-979-4910, or visit www:prescriptiondrugassistance.org.

GoodRx is a free program that saves up to 80% on prescriptions even if you have private insurance, Medicaid, or a plan on the healthcare exchange. GoodRx is not insurance and cannot be combined with insurance; use it instead of insurance at the pharmacy counter.

Get a GoodRx coupon from their website www.goodrx. com. Enter the medication name and your location to see a list of prices at nearby pharmacies. Select your pharmacy and generate a free coupon. Print the coupon out or have it texted, emailed, or mailed to you. When you pick up your prescription, show the coupon to the pharmacist who will enter the coupon numbers into their system for the discounted price.

The discounted price cannot lower your insurance co-pay but may be lower than your copay. The coupon cannot be used in combination with insurance or any other discounts. Ask your pharmacist to help you find the best possible price. Most people will use the basic free plan, but there are several others. For more information see www.goodrx.com. For assistance with using this coupon, contact the Good Rx Patient Advocates at 855 426-4465 or support.goodrx.com Here are some other programs to help save money on prescriptions. These programs are free, require no insurance, and are ideal for those uninsured or under-insured. Checking prices on the website or app is the best way to compare prices.

BuzzRx www.buzzrx.com SingleCare www.singlecare.com America’s pharmacy www.americaspharmacy.com Walmart’s $4 Prescription Program offers a wide range of essential generic medications for as low as $4 for a 30-day supply, or $10 for a 90-day supply, with no insurance or membership needed. For prices and availability contact your Walmart pharmacy.

These programs have saved billions of dollars of prescription costs.

BON WAKABAYASHI IS A COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER AND ORGANIZER BASED IN THE SPOKANE AREA AND KNOWN FOR HER WORK WITH THE NORTH COUNTY FOOD PANTRY IN ELK. SHE IS A FOUNDER OF THE NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION BLESSINGS AND BEYOND. SHE FOCUSES ON COMMUNITY SERVICE, DONATIONS AND SUPPORTING LOCAL FAMILIES.

SANDPOINT – Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness will host the 7th Annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival at the Panida Theater in Sandpoint on Thursday, March 26 at the Panida Theater in Sandpoint. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 7 p.m. Bring cash for raffle tickets.

The festival will feature a curated collection of short films celebrating our natural world and the people who find adventure, inspiration, and belonging within it.

The evening highlights themes of connection to place, resilience, and the importance of protecting wild landscapes.

A few films audiences can look forward to Inaccessible, a powerful exploration of public lands access set in Montana’s rugged Crazy Mountains; Mountain Roots, which follows a young climber reconnecting with her family heritage in the Italian Dolomites; and Annika Where She Lands, the story of an elite Nordic Combined athlete pushing for gender equality in the only Olympic sport without a women’s division. Other films explore Arctic wildlife adapting to a changing climate, the art of climbing-inspired painting in Montana’s Gallatin Canyon, and the surprising underground journey of a tiny soil creature navigating the hidden world beneath our feet.

Ticket holders can also look forward to exciting raffle prizes, and Super Star Supporter ticket holders are treated to a catered reception at Eichardt’s Pub before the show. Raffle prizes include gear from Outdoor Experience, a springtime flyover of the Cabinets & Scotchmans in a Cessna 185, a gift basket from La Chic Boutique, and more.

All proceeds from the evening support the organization’s work maintaining trails, teaching outdoor education, and keeping mountain goats wild in the Scotchmans. Every ticket purchased will help keep local public lands open for hikers, hunters, anglers, and anyone else looking to explore.

The festival has been made possible, in part, thanks to many local business sponsors including KPND Radio.

General admission tickets are $15. Student tickets are $10 (must show current student ID at the door).

Tickets and more information are available at scotchmanpeaks.org/event/wild-scenic-film-fest-insandpoint.

Last month, I invited five people from the left and six people from the right to a meeting at my home. I knew most of the people, but some knew only one. We were all curious, some were cautious and others were excited to see how it might turn out.

We did not discuss the issues, we only listened. The first time around the circle, everyone had a chance to give their perspective on ICE. As you can imagine, there were a variety of opinions, but everyone was heard and respected. The second time around the circle, we spoke about vaccines/covid. This was a little more intense. The third time around the circle, we shared our spiritual practice and how we come to balance.

And we did just fine! Everyone had a chance to be heard, and the in-person delivery of a different perspective was found to be essential to the receipt of complete and honest communication. Yes, some of us got triggered but it was okay. And we all have new friends and plan to have another meeting in two months.

Most importantly, we did it! Not only can it be done, but anyone can do it as well!

Stacy Cossey Priest River

Just one more IRS form please

I have been saying this for years every time I submit my annual Form 1040 and associated tax forms.

I would like to have one more form. The form will be simple, it will look something like a shopping list. The government form will list the major areas in which they spend my donation.

Using the form, I can tell them where I want my money to be spent. For example, I can say 100% to such and such, or 25% to one thing and 35% to another. Your choice.

With today’s government computing power it would be a piece of cake.

I think the data will help our government make decisions that better reflects the “Will Of The People.”

Joel Jacobsen Newport

Baumgartner cowardice not voted for

Just as many November 2024 general election President Trump voters express that Trump’s cruel, lawless, racist tyranny is “not what I voted for,” the same is likely true of many voting for Michael Baumgartner as our 5th Congressional District Representative.

Watching Baumgartner suck up to Trump lapdog Attorney General Pam Bondi during her histrionic, unhinged performance at Congressional hearings on opening the Jeffrey Epstein files was especially nauseating (Spokesman-Review 2/12/26).

Then Baumgartner, always lapdog to House Speaker Mike Johnson, in turn always lapdog to Trump (hence Baumgartner always lapdog to Trump), voted against a House resolution to overturn Trump’s tariffs on goods from Canada that passed the House with six Republican votes – notably one from neighbor Dan Newhouse, Washington’s 4th Congressional District Representative, who finally stood against Trump (Spokesman-Review 2/13/26). That ended Newhouse’s 5-year period as generally Trump’s lapdog following Newhouse’s exceptionally courageous vote to impeach Trump for the January 6, 2021, insurrection. Of course, Newhouse’s current “courage” is made much easier by not seeking re-election.

As for Baumgartner, after moving to Spokane in 2013, I quickly recognized his reputation for excessive self-promotion, but only following his 2024 election that he’s a coward and MAGA cult member.

Norm Luther Spokane

Iran

For those that think Trump is a warmonger, turn off CNN and search for facts. He is taking the ‘deep state’ down around the world. Maduro? When he is finished, we will have peace in the Middle East.

Iran and their proxies have killed more Americans than any other country in the world. Many Americans killed in Iraq were killed by Iranian proxies. Roadside bombs? Iran.

In 1988 Trump was asked what he would do as President. In part he said he ‘would lean heavily on Iran. They have pushed America around for years. If one bullet gets shot at a ship or soldier, I would take Kharg Island’ (Strait of Hormuz). This is where they target cargo and oil tankers. Iran helps London set the price of energy by choking off supply. The city of London (bankers) is the head of the snake.

At the beginning of the ‘war,’ Lloyds of London pulled their risk insurance from all ships in the Persian Gulf. Trump went to the Development Finance Corporation for insurance, and the Navy would escort them. Trump is taking down Iran and London at the same time.

Trump just bombed Kharg.

Glen Pierce Spokane/Cusick

Jane the ‘right’ Sauter

Are you aware of the game Democrats are playing? They run as a Republican, get their supporters to register as Republican for the primary. When they get elected, they vote like a Democrat. Deceitful in one area, deceitful in many. Please do some research.

Stop Idaho Rino’s ranks Mark Sauter as voting with the Democrats 83.9% of the time. In 2024 Mark received a 46.9% Freedom Index score from Idaho Freedom Foundation. This means he voted against their preferred position 53% of the time. You can also go to the “Sunshine” report and look up where his donors come from. You will find over 55% comes from corporations and special interest groups.

I am so excited that Jane Sauter is running for District 1 House Seat A against him. Jane is a grassroots candidate with a large number of small donors from all over the district. She has a biblical worldview and shares the morals and values of her Idahoan constituents. Jane is honest, can’t be bought, has no personal agenda. She believes we the people deserve Life, Liberty, the Pursuit of Happiness, as individuals. Vote Jane Sauter on May 19.

Annette Thompson Hope

Enhanced Drivers License is proof of citizenship

I concur that the SAVE Act includes more than voter ID. My original point was to demonstrate that a majority of Americans don’t oppose showing ID to vote, period. The editor continues to delve into the weeds, presenting a red herring argument. First, by expressing a concern about the registration to vote process, as it may impose an additional financial burden on “married women.” Although they did not explicitly state that it was an example, they specifically selected a group that is a common political talking point by individuals that have a disagreement with the Act. Their justification is questionable because contained within the Act under documentary proof, “A form of identification issued consistent with the requirements of the REAL ID Act of 2005 that indicates the applicant is a citizen of the United States.” As the Washington State EDL does.

Subsequently, now they extend their outreach to left field, presenting apparent ACLU data regarding the number of noncitizens who are participating in federal elections. To what extent does the editor intend to deviate from the original subject matter? In addition, I didn’t say the editor implied women can’t register to vote. I said “some.”

Renee Webster Newport

LETTERS POLICY

We welcome letters to the editor. Letters should be no longer than 200 words. Letters should be typed and submitted to The Miner office no later than 5 p.m. Friday for publication the following Wednesday. No letter will be published unless it is signed by at least one individual, even if the letter represents the view of a group. The letter must include a telephone number and address for authentication. The Miner reserves the right to edit letters. Political letters will not be published the last issue before an election. Letters will be printed as space allows.

I had breakfast with Ryan Crocker the same day The Miner reprinted an article from the Spokesman Review “Baumgartner Talks Iran” which included comments from Crocker. Crocker was a diplomat at the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon in 1983 when it was attacked by a suicide bomber. Crocker repeated the statement at the breakfast that he was pleased that Iran was getting what they deserve. Also at the breakfast was a retired foreign service finance manager who was recently stationed at the U.S. Embassy in Bagdad. Those distinguished people are very deliberate and guarded in discussing the Middle East.

Our congressman isn’t as guarded in justifying the current war America and Israel started with Iran. U.S. Rep. Michael Baumgartner stated that Iranbacked militants were responsible for the deaths of at least 603 Americans in Iraq between 2003 and 2011. “No other terrorist regime has claimed more American lives,” Baumgartner said. I wonder where he was on 9-11 when 15 Saudi citizens flew airliners into the World Trade Center and Pentagon killing over 3,000 people? That’s why Baumgartner got sent to Iraq in the first place. Neither Iraq nor Iran were involved in 9-11, but it didn’t matter to our revengeful politicians. We Americans wanted payback, and it didn’t matter if more Americans and innocent civilians died in the process.

I would like our congressman to answer this question, “What is the goal of the U.S/Israel war with Iran?” Currently, all the war is doing is strangling world oil supplies and increasing prices while setting America up for another Middle East failure. America has yet to learn that bombing other countries doesn’t make us safer. It just creates more terrorists and risks for our citizens.

At the breakfast Crocker also repeated this statement, “But the other part of me, the rational part of me, says, ‘Ok, what does this set as a precedent? Where do we go from here? What are the consequences?’ And we’re not having that discussion.”

Yes, how does killing bad guys and innocent civilians in the Middle East make America safer? This reminds me of the guy who climbed a ladder with a torch to burn a hornet’s nest hanging from the eve of his pole building. He fell off the ladder and broke his leg while the torch set his building on fire. Next season, the hornet nest was back, and the guy is once again grabbing for a ladder.

No, congressman, I don’t want to send my grandkids to the Middle East to fight and die getting revenge for what happened in the past. Iran has been weeks away from a nuclear weapon for over 20 years. This time you need to show us the proof.

PETE SCOBBY WAS A COLD WAR GOVERNMENT CONTRACTOR SUPPORTING NUCLEAR WEAPONS DEPLOYMENT, SPY SATELLITE LAUNCHES AND NUCLEAR WASTE CLEANUP.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Pete Scobby met Ryan Crocker through a men’s breakfast group started by Alan Shriver years ago. Shriver is a former pastor at United Church of Christ in Newport. The group has retired doctors, lawyers, military, ministers and a few people like Scobby. Alan invited Crocker as a guest on Wednesday. Scobby sat next to him, and the group had an interesting exchange about the Middle East. Also in attendance was the wife of a retired minister who recently retired from the US Foreign Service. She was stationed at the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.

House Bill 1541 updates the structure of the state’s Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee, which provides recommendations to the governor and the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs on issues affecting veterans across the state. The bill, informally named the “Jim Judd Memorial Act” in honor of Jim Judd, a beloved veteran from Inchelium, reflects the much-needed update to the committee’s composition.

The law adjusts the advisory committee’s membership by reducing certain unfilled positions, increasing the number of at-large members and ensuring that appointments reflect military experience and other personal attributes. The changes are intended to create a more flexible and representative body that better reflects the background and military experiences of Washington’s veteran community.

Abell, who currently serves as a commander in the United States Navy Reserve following more than two decades of military service, said the legislation reflects a commitment to ensuring veterans’ voices are heard across the state.

“This is a victory for our men and women in uniform. Washington is home to veterans from every branch of service, every generation, and every corner of our state,” said Abell in a news release. “This law helps ensure the advisory committee responsible for helping guide veterans policy reflects that same breadth of experience and perspective.”

The legislation also provides additional flexibility for the governor to appoint members with a variety of military backgrounds and personal experiences, while still ensuring representation from veterans’ service organizations and communities across Washington.

“Those who have worn the uniform understand that service does not end when the mission is over,” said Abell. “This bill is about making sure the men and women who continue advocating for veterans have a seat at the table and that their voices reflect the full range of experiences within our veteran community.”

The bill received overwhelming bipartisan support, passing both the House and Senate unanimously.

Abell said the legislation also reflects the input of veterans themselves.

“These updates were requested by the advisory committee and veterans advocates who want to ensure the committee remains effective and responsive,” said Abell.

“It’s an honor to see my first bill signed into law, especially one focused on those who have served our country.”

Tax breaks for data center operators could soon be stripped from Washington state law.

On Saturday, March 7, the House Finance Committee voted 8-6 to approve Senate Bill 6231. The bill cleared the Senate 26-24 Feb. 28. The bill next awaits a House floor vote.

As it stands, data center operators in most Washington counties do not pay the 6.5% sales tax on server equipment. That equipment is typically replaced every three to five years, and current law exempts sales tax on purchasing new or replacing old server equipment. It also doesn’t apply sales tax to labor hired to install the equipment.

The proposal would eliminate a portion of those tax exemptions: the break for replacing or refurbishing older server equipment. It would leave in place the exemption for purchasing new equipment.

Big tech companies and unionized electrical workers opposed the bill, arguing data centers have been economic powerhouses that help rural economies.

Supporters of the bill say it’s time to stop exempting major corporations from taxes.

Bill sponsor Sen. Noel Frame, D-Seattle, asked lawmakers if the state should continue offering the tax preference to companies or raise revenue to help the state’s stretched budget.

“That’s the policy choice in front of us,” she said during a House Finance Committee hearing on Wednesday.

The proposal, requested by Gov. Bob Ferguson, a Democrat, is estimated to bring in over $140 million for the state budget every two years if it takes effect.

Washington is already among the top 10 states with the highest number of data centers. Central Washington in particular, with its cheap hydroelectric power coupled with the state’s tax incentives, has seen a threefold increase in data center leasing in 2024, according to a report a state AI task force released in December.

“We in Washington have this competitive advantage right now because we have clean hydroelectric power, we currently have no income tax,” said Rep. Cyndy Jacobsen, R-Puyallup, during the House Finance Committee’s meeting Saturday, ahead of the vote. “We need these data centers.”

The Department of Revenue offers only six tax exemption certificates to data center operators in urban counties every year, but there is no limit on exemptions in rural counties.

Rep. April Berg, D-Mill Creek, sponsored a 2022 bill that expanded the data center tax exemptions to urban counties. Berg chairs the House Finance Committee and voted “yes” on the proposal, which would essentially cancel her previous bill.

“I can’t say I support” this new proposal, “but I do understand the need for it,” Berg told the Standard, citing the state’s budget crunch.

If the measure becomes law, data center operators would have until July 1 to take advantage of sales tax exemptions.

Rep. Ed Orcutt, R-Kalama, the top Republican on House Finance, voted “no” on the measure.

“I think that’s extremely unfair,” he said during Saturday’s meeting. “It’s going to send shockwaves to anyone who’s looking to expand or relocate here.”

Orcutt is also concerned that contracts between data centers and electricians to install equipment might have to be renegotiated if the tax break ends.

Another committee member, Rep. Shaun Scott, a socialist-Democrat from Seattle, strongly supports the rollback.

Data centers are doing “terrible things for the environment” and “driving up the cost of utilities for working families,” Scott told the Standard.

“Tax preferences that we extend should go towards enterprises and endeavors that are good for the people of our state,” he added. “Right now, there are real concerns about whether or not data centers fit that bill.”

Now that President Bone Spurs, with his concepts of a plan, has loosed the dogs of war we can all wait for the unintended consequences sure to follow.

How much will this end up costing us in blood and money? Operation Epic Fury should really be called Operation Trump-Epstein Files Distraction. Stay tuned.

Steve Bennett Newport

Priest River Community Garden kickoff March 24

With such an early spring, the Priest River Community Garden is thawed and ready to till in preparation for this summer’s gardening season. Therefore, we will be having our annual Garden Kick-off Meeting on March 24, 5:30 p.m. at the Priest River Library. This will be your opportunity to meet the other gardeners and reserve the plot you want for the summer.

Cost of plots are for the season: $15 for a 3x18 foot plot; $20 for a 4x18 foot plot, and $30 for a 6x18 foot plot. The PR Community Garden is an organically grown garden. We have tools and manure available on site. If cost is a limiting factor, we are willing to accommodate you.

For more information, ask at God’s Provision Thrift Shop; 544 Hwy 57 (garden is behind the store), or call Susan at 208-610-1719 or Anne at 208-448-2601.

Anne Wilder Chamberlain Priest River

Who really is deranged?

Much has been made about “DTS” (deranged Trump syndrome) to criticize Americans who correctly oppose Trump. I would flip this definition to argue the syndrome more correctly applies to those MAGA neanderthals who without question support the liar in chief regardless of what he says or does. A review of his reckless and unlawful actions just in the last two months leaves most people wondering what is wrong with this man.

I am proud to be called deranged for my opposition to the murder of unarmed Americans in Minnesota and other brutal, unlawful actions unconstitutionally carried out across the county by Trump’s fascist ICE thugs. Feel free to call me deranged for opposing the takeover of Venezuela to steal their oil, and the insane threats to invade Greenland and Canada for God knows why, or his attack on Iran, a nuclear power, for unclear reasons. The centerpiece of his economic policy, tariffs, was recently ruled unconstitutional by his Supreme Court. Inflation and unemployment are both up and the stock market is off 3,000 points in two weeks.

Based on these recent actions, who do you think is deranged-those individuals who believe in the rule of law and the constitution or those who continue to support King Donald the First?

Greg Hicks Spokane

Operation ‘Distract Us from Epstein’

At this point I think everyone realizes that the US attacks on the Middle East are yet another distraction from the fact that a huge chunk of the people in power in this country, politicians and billionaires alike, are predators of children. Trump keeps trying to distract us from the Epstein files to protect himself and his rich buddies. Now we’re indiscriminately bombing schools and civilians. The platitudes from our leadership mean nothing. The silence from our Representative speaks volumes. I saw an and for Baumgartner on Instagram today in his Trump uniform suit - he cares enough to advertise for re-election, but doesn’t have the courage to speak up for what’s right. When is someone in power going to stand up against these unbelievably rich child predators in a meaningful and consistent way?

Meg Lyman Deer Park

Repetition alone doesn’t create belief

A recent letter suggested that repetition of words and ideas can influence how people think and vote. There is truth in that observation. Human beings have always been shaped by the stories and language surrounding them.

But repetition alone does not create belief.

What matters just as much is whether we remain curious enough to question what we hear.

In every generation there are voices that try to simplify complicated issues into slogans or labels. That happens in politics, media, and even everyday conversations.

When ideas are repeated often enough, they can begin to feel like truth whether we have examined them carefully or not.

The responsibility, then, does not fall only on those who speak. It also falls on those of us who listen. A healthy community depends on citizens who pause, ask questions, and seek understanding rather than simply accepting the loudest or most repeated message.

In the end, words are powerful. But thoughtful people are even more powerful when they refuse to let repetition replace reflection.

Saundra K. Park Newport

Save Act

Congressional Democrats want you to think the Save Act will suppress votes by requiring photo ID and proof of citizenship when registering to vote. Nonsense. Let’s look at this logically.

American citizens are issued a birth certificate at birth. When you turn 16 you are old enough for a Driver’s License, complete with photo. Yes we pay for the license.

When a woman gets married and takes her husband’s last name, there are several things to change, and yes there are fees attached. There is a cost to being an American.

The Dem’s like to point to immigration as if they can’t afford these costs. There is a process to become a citizen, and yes there are costs.

Thousands immigrate to America legally every year. They find a way to pay for it. Everything in America comes with a cost.

A problem is many states give driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants. There is no proof of citizenship that comes through the legal process. Only American citizens should be voting in Federal elections.

How many illegals have voted in the last several elections?

America is the greatest country on earth. It’s worth the price of admission.

Glen Pierce Spokane/Cusick

Another war of choice started by GOP

Another dumb war of choice was started by Republicans who didn’t learn anything from Iraq and Afghanistan. Isarel dragged us into their forever religious Armageddon war. Trump kidnapped the leader of Venezuela and killed the leader of Iran. Trump has opened the door to forcefully removing the leaders of rival nations.

Trump can kidnap or kill the leader of any country by using the power of the US military.

He turned on the Prime Minister of Spain and is cutting off all trade with Spain because they said no to Trump’s war of choice. Trump also turned on the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom for UK’s reluctance to support his war. Our military is being led by a former Fox TV host who has a different rationale for the war every time he speaks.

His playing war like a game lost the USA $100 million in airplanes from friendly fire because we failed to program recognition codes into Kuwaiti missile defense systems.

Then, we killed over 160 Iranian schoolgirls by bombing their school.

Meanwhile, we could have a revenge terrorist attack inside America.

Imagine dozens of small suicide drones flying into loaded airliners at a major US airport.

Pete Scobby Newport

Many ways to provide ID for voting

The Editor’s note to my March4 letter, (‘Most want photo ID for voting’) seems a bit disingenuous. I only discussed voter ID, within a letter, not the entire Act.

But since it’s mentioned, upon reviewing the Bill, a Washington DL/ID, a certified copy of their birth certificate, marriage certificate (for married people), or court order proving the name change, as I read it.

Essentially, the same documents required to change the name on a birth certificate. Seems even a passport card is accepted.

I also found under the title “To Vote, section (2) “Additional Processes In Certain Cases,” subsection (A) “Process for Individuals Lacking Documentary Proof.” States shall have a procedure to provide individuals who lack documented proof of citizenship to be able to substantiate their citizenship status and sign an affidavit.

In addition, some giving the suggestion that married women may exhibit a deficiency in their knowledge to be able to register to vote with a name change is an absurd talking point.

Furthermore, it gives the impression that the sole individuals who would have a name change are married women. It’s like assuming it’s problematic for people in both rural and urban areas to get an ID to vote. SMH.

Renee Webster Newport

EDITOR’S NOTE: The example of married women in last week’s Editor’s Note is just that, an example. It did not imply that women are not capable of registering to vote. It stated, “If the name on your birth certificate doesn’t match the name on your ID, which is the case of many married women, it would require that be rectified, all of which costs money.” The added cost in order to vote is the point. The SAVE Act requires proof of citizenship, which a driver’s license does not provide. Nationwide, 0.04% of voter verification cases are returned as noncitizens, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center, citing the ACLU.

The letter must include a telephone number and address for authentication. The Miner reserves the right to edit letters. Political letters will not be published the last issue before an election. Letters will be printed as space allows.

There are two trains of thought in the Idaho Capitol this legislative session. One wants to cut government spending under the notion that budgets are bloated, spending is excessive, and nothing good comes from state government.

I have lived here most of my life other than times spent away for education and military service. In that time, I’ve watched Idaho grow from one million people to two million people. If I eat healthy and exercise, estimates say I’ll be around to see Idaho with a population of four million people.

I do not think it is realistic to expect our budget will be the same dollar amount when our population has doubled again. However, that is the thought process prevailing in the Capitol.

I do think we can acknowledge our population growth and inflation and maintain our spending at a consistent level. In fact, we have done just that here in Idaho.

In the last twenty years, Idaho government spending, per person and adjusted for inflation, has risen by only a few hundred dollars. If that is hard to believe, join us at our Townhall meetings on February 28th and we’ll share the data. There is a different narrative being shared out there, which pulls at our emotions, but the facts are hard to ignore.

Why am I always talking about the budget?

Because it affects us all in every part of our daily life. We drive on state highways. We educate our kids in Idaho. We like to be safe on the highways, at school or work, and in our homes.

State government is simply an agreement amongst ourselves to take on the tasks that we can’t take on as individuals.

Having lived here over half a century, I know what we have been. I want to make sure our kids have the same, or better, quality of life that we have enjoyed.

Which brings me back to voting. I have voted No on budgets more this year than any of my five previous years in the Idaho legislature. The approach to cutting budgets this year has been a lazy one. Across the board cuts were announced and agencies were told to provide us with a list of actions they would implement to achieve those cuts.

The Idaho legislature is the policy setting body, not the agencies. We have in policy how much we spend per student, who goes to prison, how we fund transportation, how Medicaid is implemented, etc.

To change spending, we should first have the policy discussion where we agree on what the state is going to do and how. The budget is developed based on Idaho law, not the other way around.

As a fellow taxpayer, I am not at all opposed to digging through our agencies and their budgets to look for efficiency. That is what many of us are doing, in contrast to the lazy, across the board cuts.

I will continue to push back on this short-sighted, politically motivated budget process where we are passing large bill packages, instead of considering all agency budgets individually and I will do it because it matters to you.

The sun on the horizon is the upcoming election cycle. May 19th, just three months away, voters across Idaho will have their chance to let the legislature know how they feel. It is the opportunity for Idahoans to let us know whether we should follow our traditional Idaho practices of small, fiscally conservative, responsible government or if we want to continue to migrate to D.C. style politics.

Editor’s note: This appeared in the March 9 Spokesman Review.

Last year, Deer Park Ambulance used more than $18,000 just to replace an engine.

The ambulance service posted on Facebook in January hoping community members would donate to help with future repair costs, with ongoing financial strains.

“A new ambulance costs about $250,000 currently. We are not in a position to buy a new one at this time,” said Amber Jones, director of operations for the agency.

Ambulance services in Stevens County are still navigating financial uncertainty after warning the county’s commissioners of a possible “collapse.” The ambulance services include Stevens County Sheriff’s Ambulance and Deer Park Ambulance, who have been battling the rising costs to keep ambulance services running.

Fire Chief Mike Bucy of Stevens County Fire District 1 has described the emergency medical services system as a “patchwork” of coordinated services. The system includes responders from fire districts 1, 4, 5, 7 (Arden Fire Rescue), 8, 12 and Northport Fire and Rescue providing basic care until an ambulance arrives. The only current EMS levies in the county exist in fire districts 1, 4, 5, 7 and 12, which Jones emphasizes does not fund the Advanced Life Support ambulance services in Stevens County and only goes to the fire departments.

Stevens County Sheriff’s Ambulance and Deer Park Ambulance are the only advanced life support agencies in the county.

“It’s a public safety need. It needs to be there for the people,” Bucy said.

Jones said Deer Park Ambulance has been in service since 1948 and serves as the only advanced life support transport agency in southern Stevens County.

But the continuing cost of supplies, fuel and wages have affected financial stability for the EMS system.

“We did receive enough help from the community and local businesses to get one of our ambulances repaired, but we are still always in need of donations to our organization to help us with other costs, like uniforms and other repairs,” she said.

Jones said supplies have gone up almost 20% in the last two years, and that wasn’t getting better with the tariffs that had been installed by the Trump administration.

“Something has to be done to help out the ALS transport agencies in our county,” she said. “Depending on just Basic Life Support is an option. However, if your family was in the middle of a cardiac arrest or in need of ALS interventions, only two agencies can provide that.”

William Buscher, operations manager for Stevens County Sheriff’s Ambulance, echoed Jones’ stance, adding financial struggles also have been caused by low Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements.

He said implementing a tax levy could alleviate financial concerns and allow the ambulance system to provide a stable, long-term service. He says Stevens

SEE AMBULANCE, 6A County Sheriff’s Ambulance handle an estimated 3,500 calls annually.

“We’re doing OK, but we’re struggling,” Buscher said. “Eventually, we have to get tax money. There’s no way around it.”

Josh Duke, business manager for the Chewelah Rural Ambulance, which is part of the collaborative system, said while the service isn’t financially at risk right now, it would benefit from a tax levy.

“If the way things are going, the cost of everything goes up, our call volumes going up, I don’t know in the next five years if we will be around,” Duke said.

“I fully agree with the other agencies that some sort of a countywide EMS program, tax-based, would be ideal,” he said.

Rep. Andrew Engell, R-Colville, said he’s been part of a few conversations surrounding the topic, hoping to find a solution for the ambulance system’s challenges. Engell said he worked two years as a parttime ambulance driver for the Stevens County Sheriff’s Ambulance and has seen firsthand the issues the system faces.

Engell said he presented a bill this legislative session that would have created a grant program where ambulances could apply to the program, prioritizing those rural ambulances. However, the bill didn’t make it past the House Committee.

“I’m going to keep working on it. We can’t let our ambulances go out of business, but some of them are getting close,” Engell said.

Duke said the county commissioners also have been part of the EMS conversations but no progress has been made. Stevens County Commissioners Monty Stobart, Greg Young and Mark Burrows did not respond to several requests for comment on the issue — though Young had told The Spokesman-Review in a past interview that it was time for action.

“It’s been a three-year conversation that I’m sitting here going, ‘We need to quit talking about this and solve the problem.’ But how are we going to do it? Who do we need to get in the room to figure out how to solve it?” Young said in an interview last August.

Despite appearing ready to take action, Bucy said he has not identified an approach with the commissioners that would lead to a breakthrough for the county’s EMS system.

“I’ve tried a million different approaches from my extensive background in EMS and being part of various EMS services to trying to work out a solution, but I don’t know what that would take. I wish I knew,” Bucy said.