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Big-hearted Winter Ridge, customers deserve thanks

| January 26, 2021 1:00 AM

I’m the executive director of the Model Forest Policy Program and we recently received a generous donation from Winter Ridge Natural Foods Market. Our staff and board are so grateful for Winter Ridge folks creating the “Bags of Change” program. As shoppers check out of the store, they can donate to local nonprofits. That “change” at the checkout counter clearly adds up!

I’m writing to applaud the owner, Mr. Prummer, and his team for the commitment to help keep our planet resilient, for sustaining Bonner County’s well-being, and for developing projects like Bags of Change to help local organizations. I’m also writing to ask local citizens to patronize big-hearted businesses such as Winter Ridge, particularly given the COVID-19 challenges.

Our nonprofit helps rural communities evaluate their vulnerabilities to changing climate and implement solutions. From ruptured riverbanks to scorched earth, the work we do empowers communities to be ready for the coming storm. As I write this letter and watch the rain, [NOT snow!] continue to fall, I’m present to the changes we are already experiencing. Simultaneously, I’m listening to an Alaskan tribal elder discuss changes in ice, fisheries, temperature, food shortages, and challenges of planning for his native community.

Thank you, Mr. Prummer and team, for helping our community make healthy decisions, and for helping Model Forest Policy Program be of service!

NANCY GILLIAM

Sagle