Wants to set local Appreciation Day

August 22, 2012
My roots are strong and deep in this community. I read your editorial on how you spent many years traveling and judged the town by their news media. Living in a small community is such a unique experience.

I grew up in the Seattle area. I went to college in the Central District, which at times was scary. I learned what it is like to be a minority. I had bars on all my windows and an iron gate on the front door. When I moved in, I made sure none of the beds were up against outside walls.

I grew up in a sleepy neighborhood and had never encountered violence. Once I got over some of my fears and got to know my neighbors, I relaxed. In the city, it is rare anymore to get to know your neighbors. If you are not similar in race, creed, beliefs, those can become barriers and also cause resentment, which can escalate.

Ironically, houses are about 10 feet apart. Here, we are often miles apart. Yet, you cannot go anywhere without running into a neighbor.

Back to small town news. Kudos to Mike Weland for creating this local site for local news.

I also have to appreciate my neighbors.

When my Dad was ill, everyone pitched in to help plow the driveway and just help any way they could. When he passed away, two neighbors were with my Mom immediately. Thank you Anne and Mary.

Mom and I held a "Celebrate Neighbor's Day" on June 2. How do I go about getting that declared a Bonner's Ferry holiday?
Tammy Satterlee
Bonners Ferry