Dear David,

Dan Mimmack here, the owner of Northwest Handmade. We are not closing. As I write this, I'm seething about your careless disregard for the consequences of your actions. How dare you not verify your facts when writing such a damaging announcement to the public. As of this morning, I have received many phone calls asking if what you reported is, in fact, true. A simple walk to the front of the building or at least a phone call would make it crystal clear that Northwest Handmade is not closing. As I know you will, you'll call to apologize and write a retraction but, as the old saying goes, the damage is done. Northwest Handmade has supported the local arts community for more than 15 years. It is at these times when a lot of us small business owners are struggling that we need the support of the local media. Please understand how important it is to get it right.

DANIEL MIMMACK

Sandpoint