Sandpoint, Idaho Guide to North Idaho Information and Media

STEPS FOR SCHOOLS: THE CHALLENGE CONTINUES

64 Idaho legislators walk to support local schools

Walking may be a simple activity we do daily, often without giving it much thought, but such a simple thing can bring great change—in our health, in our attitude and outlook, and now, in our schools. The walking challenge is back, and despite a year of challenges and a pandemic, our Idaho legislators and leaders are eager to champion for health, and they’re starting out by leading by example.

In February, members of the Idaho State Legislature, as well as the lieutenant governor, attorney general and state controller, joined the walking challenge to help raise awareness of healthy habits, as well as raise money for schools throughout the state.

NAVIGATING THE SLOPES

MEET THE ARTIST WHO GUIDES YOUR WAY

Growing up on a small farm in Western Colorado, Jim Niehues’ love of the outdoors started early. Situated amongst 10,000-foot mountain peaks, and with red rock canyons and deserts within an hour drive, Jim was drawn to outdoor adventure. From a young age he was paddling the Colorado River and hiking and hunting with his brothers and father, all while mesmerized by the scenery around him. When he would come back from trips he would attempt to sketch and paint what he had seen firsthand, as well as his surroundings on the farm. “As a very young child I would draw the animals on the farm, and my mother figured I had some talent,” Jim recalled.

An unfortunate bout with Nephritis in the ninth grade had Jim bed-ridden for three months, but it was during this unfortunate time that he would begin his painting journey, which would become his life’s work.

24 HOURS FOR HANK

HEAD TO THE SLOPES AND HELP RAISE MONEY FOR CYSTINOSIS RESEARCH

The longest giant slalom in the U.S is back! March 27 marks the annual 2,400 Feet of Schweitzer alpine, snowboard and telemark event to support 24 Hours for Hank, so get ready to hit the slopes. At sunrise, the event begins at the Sky House Lodge on the summit of Schweitzer, finishing at the Outback Lodge at the base.

All skill levels are welcome, and each team will include two or four people, with timed runs. Seeding for the race will be determined on participant fundraising efforts, but even if you haven’t fundraised, you can still join in the fun of the event and help raise money for an important case.