'Eat In For Ethan' set for Thursday

SANDPOINT – Great sandwiches are teaming up with a great cause to benefit NAMI Far North on Thursday.

Uptown Bagel Co. is once again hosting “Eat In For Ethan,” a fundraiser for the local chapter of National Association for Mental Illness. A portion of proceeds from each sandwich sold that day will go to the group in Ethan Murray’s name.

Uptown Bagel Co. owners Angelina Henry and Marcy Timblin said they decided to hold the monthly benefit, held the third Thursday of the month, in recognition that despite the area’s natural beauty and friendly people, the incidence of depression and mental illness is high compared to other parts of the country. In fact, Idaho ranks seventh highest suicide rate and nearly everyone is touched by some form of mental illness.

Timblin herself has a grown child who suffers from schizophrenia.

Uptown’s “Choose Happy” tagline is more than a superficial slogan. The goal is create a sense of belonging and fun.

Henry compares the energetic and welcoming atmosphere to “the Cheers experience,” where the customers are like a second family.

However, maintaining that upbeat and cheerful culture while addressing such serious issues is challenging. Timblin assures customers that the fun and energy that Uptown is known for will not go to the wayside on those third Thursdays.

“Like Dutch Bros.’ Drink One For Dane events, Eat In For Ethan is about using our fun brand to highlight education about a cause that happens to be very personal,” said Timblin.

Ethan Murray, son of local shop owner Justine Murray, was recently lost his life due to his ongoing battle with mental illness. Ethan had suffered from schizophrenia and was unable to get help for his condition despite exhaustive efforts by his mother. Justine is using her story to bring attention to the stigma and challenges of establishing proper care for those with mental illness.

Uptown owners and staff hope that this initiative will encourage people to talk openly about mental illness and learn more about it through NAMI Far North. Free information will be available for interested ones.

Eat In For Ethan takes place at Uptown Bagel Co., 313 N. Third Ave., on Thursday, Sept. 19, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Information: marcy@uptownbagels.com or 208-263-9276