Athol Daze 2008

Athol Daze are here again with a bigger, better lineup of entertainment. Saturday, August 9 marks the 99th year that Athol has been a city. Born in 1909, Athol is one year younger than her neighbor, Spirit Lake, which is holding their Centennial this year. Big things are in store for the celebration.

Featured as the number one accomplishment of the City, is the dedication of the enhancement of city Park from a vacant lot to a major league playground. Built mostly with donations and grants this park features a skate board park that ran over $20,000 and the newest attraction, a play station built with a $26,000 grant from Trans-Canada Pipeline. Just finished July 23, the first of many children were seen cavorting on, in and about the newest attraction. Washed gravel one foot thick covers the area of the slides and ladders to cushion any falls that may occur.

Starting off the activities for Athol Daze, will be a parade through town ending at the park. Lineups for the parade is at 9:00 am with the parade at 10:00. Entries for the parade, or for booths for the park must register with city hall, 683-2101. The parade will start behind the school on Davis Lane, then turn left onto highway 54 then left again at City Hall to the park. Awards for the parade entries will be around 11:00 following the end. Some of the events at the park are yet to be determined, but Money in the Straw, which was a great success last year will be first right after the parade. This event will be open to kids from one to 12 in different age groups. Metal detectors are prohibited, as well as parental assistance.

Various contests, such as Watermelon and pie eating contests are also planned. Booths with food and games will abound throughout the park. The annual benefit auction will be held at Noon and is expected to last until around 1:30 pm. Music will be performed by the Bell Family from 1:30 through 4pm with a break of two in between. The Bells, a home grown family are arguably the most talented musical family in the area, if not the state. The annual cakewalk will be at 2:00 pm. A pinata will be assaulted sometime during the festivities with children flocking to the resulting cascade of candy. Some of the events are still in the planning stage and may not appear. Others not mentioned might pop up. Many other children’s games will be played throughout the day, with everything winding up around 4:00 pm.

Following the festivities in the park, the American Legion, Post 149 will host a jam session under the gazebo in back of the club starting at 4:00 pm. All musicians are invited. Your host will be the irrepressible “Jeanne and the Good time Party Boys.” Last year the legion sponsored an old timers jam that was a huge success.

Where Have The Good Old Days Gone

The Garwood Saloon has been in existence for so long, nobody still alive remembers when it first opened. Recently bought by the Idaho State Department of Transportation for a new highway project, this icon will close permanently July 30, with a going away bash on the 19th, which I attended. The riding arena next door, closed in 2005. Owners for the last 23 years, Wayne Darwood and his wife, Darralyn enlarged the old place, then built the riding arena that borders the Saloon on the south. Situated on Highway 95 and Garwood Road, it became a police magnet for potential DUI’s. Not to be deterred, Wayne set up RV parking so guests could party all night, then crawl into their rig without the fear of being arrested, or worse, killing themselves or others on the highway.

A gigantic barbecue out back signaled the goodies the guests were going to experience at this, the last hurrah. As we walked through the door we were greeted cheerfully by bartender, Tina Miller, who scooped up an ice cold MGD with my name on it. Not wanting to be churlish, I humbly accepted the brew and started circulating the room. Introduced to owner, Wayne Darwood, I took in the most recent history of the place. Much like the Snake Pit on the Coeur d’Alene River, the current liquor license is a historical one. In Idaho, liquor licenses are not issued to businesses outside incorporated cities, unless they are waterfront resorts, or historical. Several years ago, violations of bootlegging laws, were flagrantly violated in the more secluded areas. In order to better control liquor sales, the state passed a law that issued licenses to those businesses that could provide evidence that a bar or saloon had existed for at least 75 years. That license is over 23 years old, suggesting it might have been in it’s previous existence since the turn of the previous century, as a logger’s hangout. In the seventies, real cowboys hung out there, as there were many ranches still operating in the area. The Garwood burned down in the early seventies. I remember dropping in for a beer back in, I think 1972. Then it was much smaller. It was rebuilt, but current folks don’t remember the names of the owners, other than the ones preceding Darwood were, “Deb” and “Sam.”

Wayne showed us around, and explained that about twice a year, he would throw a free barbecue for his friends and customers, which actually, were one and the same. Visiting with the friends and relatives that showed up for the final shindig, we noticed the preponderance of older people present. Ted Prewitt, grizzled horse rancher from Twisp Washington was there, spinning tails of his roping days. When a cowboy was spotted, they weren’t just dressed the part, they were people that raised livestock and harvested their own hay, for the most part. Denny Middleton and his band prepared to play one last gig at this historical place. Denny is know far an wide for his magical fiddle playing. The odor drifting up from the BBQ became overpowering as the chef, Herman Froelich opened the cooker, revealing perfectly prepared pork loin. Time to ‘er pig out. A trestle table appeared bulging at the seams full of beans, potato salad and much more. We paused for the cause.

Asked what they were going to do, when the last of the month came and the doors closed for one last time, Wayne replied, “Were gonna head for Fargo North Dakota to see our son, then who knows where. Probably Arizona in the winter.” He went on to say,”We like having our freedom, but were going to miss this place and every one of our customers.” They will undoubtedly catch some rodeos, as Wayne and several other relatives and friends were retired rodeo performers. Darwood’s, specialty was roping, as was his buddy from Twisp, who was visiting for the last time. Garwood Saloon, one of the last “Road Houses,” will be missed.

A disgraceful Event

Title 67, Idaho code

Chapter 77

67-7710

"(3) As used in this subsection, "net proceeds of a charitable raffle"
means the gross receipts less the cost of prizes awarded."

Three weeks have gone by since the Bayview Chamber of Commerce held the drawing for it's annual fund raiser. No prize has been awarded yet, and there doesn't seem to be any movement toward repairing the situation. It must be noted that many residents of Bayview have already sworn no to ever buy tickets in a chamber raffle again. When the rules are ignored and payouts don't happen, mistrust occurs. The initital damage was done when the money wasn't immediately paid out. More damage, even to the extent of curtailing important fund raising efforts, may occur if this isn't resolved, and quickly.

The whole situation stems from the mis-interpretation of the term Proceeds, as it applies to compensation. The above, cut and pasted from Idaho code 67-7710, clearly defines the difference between winnings and proceeds, yet once taken, it appears that the board of directors position has solidified, not so that clarification might happen, but apparently pure stubbornness. Egos are fine, but not when they obscure logic.

Some officers have stated for the record that"We don't intend to break any laws."

Well, It is against the law to hold a raffle, then defraud the winner out of their rightful prize. That constitutes a felony, which would be enforceable against each and every officer or board member that participates in the fraud. Voting does not relieve the organization from any responsibility for honesty. Predetermining what action to take in a board meeting between two or more officers, then bringing a position paper into a formal meeting as a "done deal" constitutes a violation of the open meeting laws, also actionable.

I am not immune from making mistakes either, but as my late father once said, "When you have dug yourself a hole, the first thing you need to do is let go of the shovel."

Also, for those curious, the winner, Braden Rosenau, was born healthy, and Grandpa, always trustful, gave his Son's Mom $1000 in cash, in anticipation of the chamber finally doing the right thing.

Who Are You

Writing a blog as a neighborhood news source gives me great pleasure, though occasionally does not for the few that manage to willfully step in the smelly stuff. My take on that is that if one does something odorific and I write about it, poetic justice is served. Most of the feedback I get, however, and I am using this post to reminisce, is from people that have been to Bayview, or live here part time and want to keep up with whats going on. The occasion for reminiscing is that I noticed yesterday that my site counter had logged over 60,000 page views since I started this back in January of 2005.

To be precise, I have had up to this minute, 60,332 page views and 35,002 visits in that time. For a hobby journalist, these numbers are overwhelming. I haven't given too much time to figuring out the whys of it, it just is. People visit from all over the world, though most are from the USA. All over the USA.

This week I printed out the site meter stats and studied them. some IP's were like old friends, even though I don't have a clue who they are. Others, I know precisely who and where they are. I admit to being very curious, not about the casual pop from someone that found me through a key word used in a Google search, but the repeat visits from all over the U.S. Today, one was from London, England. I know who that is, because Dr. Land sat next to me at the Captain's Wheel before he flew back to England last week. Another was from Melbourne, Australia. I haven't a clue who that was.

Stillwater,Oklahoma would be my good friends from Silverwood that moved back to Oklahoma City. Las Vegas? Not a clue. Anchorage, Alaska? Possibly my ex-wife, a charming redhead working for the county last time I heard. Chicago? no clue, as well as Dallas, Texas; Eden, Utah; Billings, Montana; Gilbert Arizona; Sherwood, Oregon; San Jose, California; Wilmington, Delaware;Kansas City Missouri; Fredricksburg,Virginia;Blue Gap, Arizona; Poughkeepsie, N.Y, a repeat visitor.

Others are Hollywood, Florida; Davenport, Washington; Oakesdale, Washington; Yakima,Washington; San Francisco; Ithica, NY; and many others. These were gleaned just from today and yesterday. Visits from all of Europe and Australia, the middle east, North Africa, even Iran once.

What I would like to do is hear from some of these people, especially those that repeatedly visit. You can e-mail me privately at: Bayviewherb@gmail.com. It would be almost like pen pals of yesterday to become acquainted with some of you. For those that are curious about some of these originations, the site meter logo shows at the bottom of my blog page. Scroll down and click on the logo. I have not privatized it and the information is there for any interested part to see. You can, of course, comment directly on the blog, however, if you wish to remain anonymous, e-mail me direct.

Shining a light on good things is a pleasure. Shining a light on back room shenanigans is not, but that is where a light needs most urgently to be shined. In the mean time, I will try hard to stick to the tried and true rules: When, what, why, Where,and How. I posted a picture of Bayview for those that wish they were here. Stay tuned ... Oh, and the second picture is for those of you that winter elsewhere.

Fires Are Happening

Timberlake fire District was called out for a small fire in Bayview, late this afternoon. The fire is out. Timberlake fire district snapped to in a hurry and limited the fire to about a 20' x 20' space. In the middle was a playhouse built by kids who were seen running away. Suspects may have been playing with matches and it got away.
It reminds me when I was very young, and we had an old roman candle in the basement. My buddy and I took it deep into a brushy area so nobody would see us light it. After we did the traditional git, we looked back to see a huge fire chasing us. Never did that again. Hope these kids won't either.

New fire chief, Jack Krill was first on the scene, but the fire was so small yet, they initially had trouble spotting it. All is well, at least until the next one. There is an abundance of fuel in the area, helped by the wet spring we've had. Bayview has been extremely lucky, combined with knowledgeable residents that we haven't had a serious wild fire in the last few years. Jack tells us that they have been very busy the last week.

On scene was Kevin Elmore, looking terribly innocent. Kevin does the annual fireworks display in Bayview during Bayview Daze. I explained to the chief that one of his volunteers was a pyrotechnician, and needed to be watched carefully.

When confusion Reigns

There seems to be a great deal of confusion and misinformation circulating about the issue of withholding $1000 winnings from the winner of the Bayview Chamber of Commerce raffle recently. I will take each issue individually:

Who sold the ticket, Ralph to himself is a non-issue. When volunteer organizations set out to sell raffle tickets, they give them out to members that will make the effort to sell them. In virtually every case, that person will buy a ticket from those already in their possession. Only filling out the stub and forking over the money are necessary. Their is no legal requirement that it be bought from another party.

There have been several other non-issues brought up, all poorly researched. First, in order to determine whether the paragraph dealing with legality is Germaine, one must define the words "proceeds" and "winnings."
Winnings are those funds or products won by having your ticket drawn. Proceeds are those funds that are retained by the sponsoring organization. The purpose of this portion of the law is to prohibit officers of a sponsoring organization from paying themselves from these monies, defeating the charitable purpose of the exercise.

The next mistake was simple math. The portion of the law that refers to relatives states that no person within the second degree (relative) may receive compensation from "proceeds." Well, first we have already discussed the term "proceeds." Secondly, a grandchild is a relative in the "third degree." As to the issue of the unborn grandchild, true it is an unusual move to specify an unborn child as the recipient, but not illegal. If the child fails to be born, the winnings would then revert back to the purchaser of the ticket, Ralph Jones. Another phantom issue was raised. Kathi Ellis, treasurer, stated, "that she could not make a check out to an unborn person who would be unable to cash it." It is not the duty of the sponsoring organization to worry about the ability of an infant to cash a check, only to issue it. Bank accounts are created for infants, born and unborn all the time. They just require an adult parent or guardian to administer it.

Failure to appoint a committee: Ralph Jones IS the committee. An appointed committee chairman is under no obligation to appoint assistants formally. Actually, I was one of those assistants that assisted Ralph throughout the process, as were many others.

These are the only issues. Defining proceeds, which I have done, and the non-issue of the error in considering a grandchild as a second degree relative. That one is not Germaine, simply because of the misapplication of the term, "proceeds."

In the manifesto, or what ever the board of directors wants to call the unsigned document that was read into the record, several somewhat snide remarks were made that, too, were inaccurate. For instance, the failure of myself, characterized as a former spokesman-Review journalist to contact Ms. Ellis. Since I felt she was the antagonist in this soap opera, I went directly to Jim MacDonald, president for confirmation. Oh, and as of this date, I am still writing for the S/R. I don't know where the former came from.I did not call Ralph Jones poor.

In my conversation with Jim MacDonald, he used the example of himself winning a barbecue in a previous raffle. He pointed out that he had sold it and turned the proceeds back to the Chamber of commerce. I told him that his actions were admirable, but that he was the wealthy owner of a successful marina, where Ralph Jones was a first year business owner that perhaps couldn't afford to be that magnanimous. Never was the word "poor" used. Also, it's one thing to give back something worth in the neighborhood of $150, and quite another to forego a $1000 prize.

This example can, however point to the fact that MacDonald, president of the Chamber, the sponsoring organization, accepted the prize, being a BBQ, rather than money. That he chose to donate it back was fine, but certainly not required or necessary. This is an exact parallel to the $1000 drawing, just a different prize. Why should MacDonald be able, without challenge, to accept his prize and Ralph Jones cannot. If there is, and I doubt the the legal advisers to the board have even looked into it, a problem with awarding the prize to an unborn child, it will be a moot point by tomorrow, since the child is being induced today. The secondary solution would be to award the prize to the holder of the winning ticket, Ralph Jones.

There is at least one and possibly two attorneys that are members of the Bayview Chamber of commerce. I would suggest that they be asked to interpret these points for the officers, so as to forestall the continuation of this travesty. The board of Directors are not empowered to confiscate the winnings for the unbelievable reasons they have stated.

For the Chamber of commerce to re-draw, or to keep the money would probably result in a fraudulent transaction at best, and outright theft at worst. clearly, this precipitous action on the part of the board of directors is what has the potential to split to community, not the shining of light on a back room hustle. End this lynching, step back and re-examine the motives behind this whole fiasco. The solution is to immediately cure the situation and issue a public apology to Ralph Jones.

Addendum: 7/16. Braden Rosenau was born today,in Missoula at 6:20 pm,mountain time. It goes without saying that this is a fine opportunity for the Chamber board to do the right thing before the whole issue winds out of control.

Tranquility

When everything seems to be going down the tube, it just takes a full moon to jerk you back to reality. Many good things are happening in Bayview. some aren't so good. But what brings us back to why we are here, is the picture above. The moon was caught rising just above Bernard Peak by yours truly.

Regrets

It is with great regret that I posted the dirty laundry of the Bayview Chamber of Commerce a few days ago. Since that post there have been several horribly twisted comments,blatant untruths and actions by a few member/officers of the Chamber. At present, nobody seems to want to just talk about truth and facts. Having said that, I am not going to at this time, throw gasoline on the fire, in hopes that logic and truth will prevail.

If it doesn't, and I feel the issues need some light shined on them again, I will do so, even with the knowledge that harm will be done. The reason? Because much more harm can be done by power struggles without justice, than I could ever do by merely going public. Sorrow prevails at this time.

From The Internet

Subject: F.Y.I.


A recent study conducted by Harvard University found that the average
American walks about 900 miles a year.

Another study by the American Medical Association found that
Americans drink, on average, 22 gallons of alcohol a year.

This means, on average, Americans get almost 41 miles to the gallon.

Kind Of Makes You Proud To Be An American.

Summertime

There is a song, actually one of my favorites, that goes something like this: "Summer time, when the livin' is easy ..."

Here in Bayview, with as close as you can get to a perfect summer, we had a visitor. 5 1/5 year old Destiny Eisenhart was visiting my neighbor when I took the above shot. There were many others around town that were kicking back.Marie Streater, manager of The Captain's Wheel Restaurant looked practically unconscious after a tough Saturday Night behind the bar. That lasted as always with Mom's, until one of her super active sons messed up at which time she cracked the whip. I believe it is true that Moms have eyes in the back of their heads, or prescience, or something that's supernatural. Anyway, enjoy the picture above of Destiny, meeting her summertime destiny.

On another note, we perused the Coeur d'Alene Press and found an article by Rick Thomas about the Antique fair being held at Garwood.

"Mennonite Women are among the refreshments and nourishment available."

I always thought that Mennonites were a bit more conservative than that. (quote from Rick Thomas's article about the antique fair) Good thing I have excellent editors to catch bad sentence structure like that ... At least I think it was bad structure, but then again, I don't know the Mennonites in question.

When Wrong Is Righted

Many folks in Bayview learned to their surprise, that shortly after The Fourth week-end, Holly, Manager of the Patio at Boileau's, was fired by the new management of the Buttonhook, now run by Ivano's of Sandpoint. The reasons were obscure, since the patio had just set a record for profit and volume. We, of course do not have the full story, nor are we likely to get it.

What we do know, however, is that she has been hired back. Holly is perhaps the most energetic, friendly person that we have working in Bayview, and is appreciated by all.
Rather than try to explain the unexplainable, I will just quote, Norma Jean, of Waterford Park.

"Maybe you might want to post that Holly is back at the Patio.
Bayview stood by one of its own and so did Mr. Holland."

Norma Jean

Well, we just did. Welcome back, Holly!

When Winners Lose

Every year, the Bayview Chamber of commerce holds a raffle in which two Thousand dollars is raised. One thousand goes to the fireworks fund. The other thousand goes to the lucky winner, Unless the winner is Ralph Jones. Like most years, the ticket sales, only 100 total, are sold throughout the year. When the clutch time comes and they are not all sold yet, the officers of the Chamber step up and buy the rest.

Such was the case several years ago when Loraine Landwehr, then treasurer of the Chamber, won something like 3 out of 6 years. Why so lucky? Ticket sales were down and she made up the difference. This year, Ralph bought the last ticket, put his grandchild's name on it and lo and behold, Vicki Richardson, newly crowned
Queen of Bayview drew Ralph's ticket.Ralph Jones, is the Vice-president of the chamber.

Kathy Ellis, treasurer, has refused to fund the winnings, claiming that there is a law against officers of an organization holding a raffle being eligible. Ellis even went, according to Jones, so far as to suggest Jones should have known better. Jones, of course referred to the previous officer winning multiple times and also suggested that if those are the rules, then why weren't they posted in advance of the sale, rather than after the fact. Should then Landwehr be required to refund her past Winnings? It would appear that the defining difference this year over the past, are the personalities involved, rather than the situation.Jim MacDonald, president, is backing Ellis's decision. Methinks we haven't heard the last of this mess. Stay tuned.

Bayview Daze Parade Winners

The following, are winners of the Street Parade, and the Lighted Boat Parade, Saturday, July 5. There probably some misspellings. This was due to the entrant's, scrawling their information illegibly.

Parade and boat parade awards were given out Sunday. The street parade awards are as follows:

Commercial; first place, Captain’s Wheel pirate ship. Second place, Timberlake Fire Truck. Third, Calam Shriners.

Specialty category: First place, Candy’s Classy chicks; second, Ron and Tara Louvier; third, Falun Gong.

Children’s division: Motorized stools; second, patriotic kids; third, Church Grand kids.

Animals: Kootenai County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse; second, Horses, Mirah Ferrell and third, Kootenai County Saddle club.

Lighted boat parade winners were first, second and third respectively, Jim & Jo Woods with the vessel, “The Last One, followed by Dale Hoplein’s “Ida Mae,” a houseboat, followed by the third place winner, “Chris Hana,” piloted by Debbie Reichert, a sailboat.

The marching band provided by the Idaho Army National Guard won first, and the gratitude of the entire community. Second was the Athol Legion Post 149 color guard and Auxiliary drill team.

There wasn’t a category for escaped prisoners, but one entry, wearing a striped jail suit, looked suspiciously like Kootenai County Sheriff, Rocky Watson. Kudos for Farragut State Park firing up the old 1942 fire engine that served the Navy Base during WW11.

The Garwood Saloon

The Garwood Saloon, along with the adjoining rodeo area is closing permanently soon, due to the new highway construction project. If any of you out there have stories, memories and especially historical information regarding this historical watering hole, please e-mail me at hhuseland@aol.com, or call me at 683-9107.

Herb

When The Law doesn't Apply Logic

Sometimes we wonder about our law enforcement agencies. Either we wonder why they can't clean up the Meth labs, or on the other hand, we wonder why they actually don't obey the law themselves.I have written about Cop Abuse. I have also complimented good police work and of course, when they are thinking, rather than dragging their knuckles, they really come in handy.

We wonder what happened to the real pros like Dick White, long retired, who seasoned the law with common sense. We sometimes wonder what happened to the good old days when people that were screw-ups, still respected the guys that slapped the cuffs on. We wonder about the old pros that were lured out of retirement from LAPD, and had the experience to know right from wrong, and what was important to enforce. Now we have a gaggle of barely adult kids with way too much testosterone, and way too little maturity. Oh, and they get to carry a gun, too. One sometimes wonders what mental tests these guys pass.

Some of the problem is with the county. Kootenai County has consistently underfunded the Sheriff's Department. Some of that is because of the friction between the elected Sheriff and the separately elected County Commissioners. Bottom line, they don't like each other. Results? We the people suffer from under trained kids with a gun and a lot of huffed up authority.

This brings us to the point of this particular post. During the week-end, the Kootenai County Sheriff's Department Goons, descended upon the Lakeland RV Park. Not to stop an in progress crime, but to arrest a man accused of child molestation, obviously, an egregious crime. I call them Goons, because the probable cause they had, was that the last name of the alleged perpetrator was Brown. I won't mention the first name, because I personally know two and possibly three Browns with the same first names. They also had information that led them to believe the suspect drove a red truck.

Now let's cut to the chase. Obviously, a guy named Brown and driving a red pickup narrowed the chase down to just a few thousand. Bingo, they had their Guy. I am finding as I write this report, it very difficult to refrain from using obscenities. Sometimes, normal adjectives just don't say enough. Well, I have a hard and true philosophy about that. I want my blog to inform, educate and entertain. I also want your kids to be able to log on to it.

Well, back to the story. Having found what they thought was their man, hey, name Brown, red pickup, what could go wrong. They sailed into the aforementioned RV park, where Mr Brown was a maintenance worker, doing his job. In front, allegedly, of his wife and child, he was arrested, thrown against a vehicle, and was about to be hauled off, when the owners of the RV Park stepped up and questioned their identification. Hopefully embarrassed, these Keystone Cops fled in disarray, wondering how many other Browns they would have to arrest to finally get the culprit. Why, Why, Why! Where is the leadership! Where is the training! I personally, am disgusted beyond belief.

There comes a point, where either we as a people put up with our liberties being trashed, our kids being subjected to hard drugs, or we step up, recognize we can't hire or keep officers with adequate experience without competitive pay. We aren't going to have both. I call on the Kootenai County Commissioners to reject the on the cheap program the county has followed for over twenty years, and grab the brass ring. Give us qualified officers that care about the people that they are sworn to protect. Give us officers that don't cheat on probable cause for traffic stops. Currently, an egregious failing. If the Cops do not respect the public, the public will never respect the Cops.

We will write more, as more information becomes available. One can only hope that the County department hierarchy is listening.

Bayview Daze 2008 Is Over

Thousands crammed into the little lake side village of Bayview for the 4th week-end festivities. As usual, the fireworks and main entertainment venues concentrated on Saturday the 5th. We had fun, we had confusion, we had the 25th Division Idaho National Guard Band in our parade, but in Bayview,unlike Coeur d'Alene, we didn't march as political parties. Everyone in the parade marched as Americans. I found it rather strange, even bazaar, that almost all the comments on Huckleberries about the Coeur d'Alene parade revolved around a pissing contest as to which political party had the most fun, were the loudest, and/or were outnumbered. Rather than concentrate on the purpose of the celebration (for those that are so wrapped up in partisanship, that would be celebrating our independence from England. Methinks some peoples priorities need looked at. Perhaps adults were barred from attending.

Arguably the largest parade ever, the band made a huge difference. Even with the changing of leadership from Liz Justus and Lorraine Landwehr as parade directors, to Ralph Jones, and the Street bazaar from Jackie Orth to Cindy Post and Kathy Ellis, it was a grand day, or days. As usual, the streets were so clogged with parked cars, (some even legally) that driving was at least third choice. Walking took over. While there is always someone from out of town that gets drunk and ends up as a guest of Rocky Watson, for the most part, Bayview was trouble free. Pictured above, are Charlie Bell, leader of the band, and further down, twin Bell sisters, Nellie & Emily ... or maybe Emily & Nellie, with their babies. Married within two months of each other, birthing their children with two months of each other, it appears they pretty much do everything together.

We had a magnificent lighted boat parade, followed by a 50% increased fireworks show over last year. The largest dollar wise and people wise three days of the year found local businesses dragging with fatigue, but packing home the money necessary to make it through yet another North Idaho winter. I'll have more in my Thursday column in the "Prairie Voice" section of the spokesman-Review. Mean while, sit back and check the pictures out.

Bayview Daze, Update

Well, here we are, around 11:00 pm Saturday night. We have overcome slight problems with the parade, everyone still had a great time, and without exception, most thought it was the best parade ever. This was mainly due to the late addition of the Idaho Army National Guard Band. They were great. We have Queen Vicki Richardson for being on her toes. When she found out they were marching in Coeur d'Alene's parade, she asked them to stay over for ours. They did, and they were a great hit.

After they parade, we segued into afternoon party time, followed by music provided by several bands. One, the most popular local family band, the Bells, performed outside at the Captain's Wheel, where later, the internationally acclaimed band, Too Slim and the Tail Draggers performed. What started out as a local blues band out of Spokane, and an ever popular attraction at the late bar, Chelseas, went national, then international. We welcome home our very favorite blues guys.

As usual, tons of tourists came down for the festivities. I was pleased that many people that I either know from their Paper, or my blog, came up to introduce themselves, including our favorite, GOP guy,Gary Ingram, who stopped by to trade Huckleberries stories with me. All in all, everyone had a great time, including yours truly.

Is Bad News Good News?

Much has been discussed in the last few days about whether the media is becoming too negative. Sometimes they are. The old, " If it bleeds, it leads, " is still a part of our news heritage.On the other hand, would you rather not hear things that might seriously effect your life?

Sure, it would be nice if everything were "hunky dory," but is that reality? No it's not. when things are going great, perhaps the media would be well advise to emphasize that more than they do. Is that slanted journalism? Probably. no, obviously so. Once a news or feature gets out into the public, it tends to take on a life of it's own. Thence, without any professional or technical guidance, it somehow becomes fact.

If I had my druthers, we would scrub the tainted reporters from the earth. Unfortunately we can't. The reason? Because the money behind the news comes from tainted political sources. Not the political parties, but from the publishers themselves, that finally, can't resist the opportunity to further their political agenda. Hey, why spend all that money on a newspaper or television network when you can't turn the world around.

The Spokesman-Review, the paper that I write for, probably cares more about this issue than any other that I have found. I have been prohibited from writing some stories here in Bayview, because of my editor's concern about objectivity. I love that part. That gives me credibility. I also delight in having friends point out such terms as the Socialist-Review, and others, equally intelligent, (I think) believe that this paper is heading down the slippery slope of right wing conservatism. Actually, they are both right. Steve Smith, Editor of this rag, is a dedicated, some feel, dictator, but what he represents is the thirst for truth, the inevitable cutting of costs, and of course gets blamed for everything the publisher's throw at him.

May he survive, as we would also like to see the Spokesman-Review do.

When You Need A Cop ...

Sometimes, when you call a cop it's not to report a crime. In a case most recently, it was for help.

This intrepid reporter received a call for assistance from two widely respected members of the community. Bob and Suzanne Rickel, retired farmers, began receiving pesky notices in the mail from New York City.

It stated that a jeep was illegally parked in the city Oct. 28, 2007, registered to the Rickels. We followed our own advice, and called a cop. The Rickels in fact do own a jeep. It's a 1954 model that has been in storage for more than 10 years, then transported to Suzanne's brother by trailer to Seattle. The plates still reside here in Bayview at the Rickel residence.


Enter Capt. Ben Wolfinger of the Kootenai County Sheriff's Department. We requested his assistance, and Capt. Wolfinger ran the plate and verified it is the number registered to the Rickels. By the time Wolfinger got involved, the notices had got nastier and more frequent, ending in a default judgment of $107.38.

After determining the facts, Capt. Wolfinger graciously mailed a letter to New York City explaining that one, the Rickels had never been in New York City, nor were they likely to go there in the future. Two, the car in question was not white, as the parking ticket revealed, but dark green. The third and we hope the deciding factor, is that the car in question is 54 years old and while restored, isn't capable of such a journey.

One can only hope that the largest bureaucracy in today's world will understand. If not, Captain Wolfinger does not anticipate his cooperation in an attempt to extradite the alleged offenders.

Bayview Daze Are Upon Us

Six bands lead off the festivities in a gigantic battle of the bands. Bayview Daze is here again. The most fantastic of a series of great fireworks displays will happen this year. In the past, Bayview has, through the fund raising efforts of the community, increased the budget for this year by fifty percent. The real treat though, is that if you are having fireworks in Sandpoint or Coeur d’Alene or even Post falls, you don’t have to miss Bayview. The reason? Bayview holds their display Saturday, July fifth, giving everyone the opportunity to double dip. The entire celebration stretches three days, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the 4th,5th and 6th. The following is a schedule of events:

First up is the street fair. Arts, crafts, all kinds of neat stuff. If you haven’t got your T-shirt from the Athol booth yet, here’s your chance. Friday finds live music at JD’s featuring Wyzer. Not to be upstaged, the Captain’s Wheel presents the band, Comfort Zone. Music at JD’s will be provided by Wyser.

Saturday brings most of the events, including the fireworks show. Entertainment will be appearing all over town. 9am to 6 pm features a Kid’s fair downtown with “The Fun Guy.” 11am has the Street Parade which travels from 3rd & Spruce down to Main Street, ending at the Community Center. Entries must be lined up by 10am. It is also advised that those that are planning to attend the parade, get into town early while there are still a few inches of parking to spare. Following the parade, cars will be displayed at the Scenic Motel for Show & Shine. Parade awards will be presented at Ralph’s Internet Coffee house at 2 pm.

JD’s will feature two bands, Saturday the 5th. Afternoon features David Walsh. Evening cranks up with the band, “Four Times Over.”

From 4pm to 8pm, The Bells will appear on the outside stage at the Captain’s wheel. As a special treat, from 9pm to 1am live on the main stage inside at the ‘Wheel, is the nationally acclaimed band, “Too slim and The Tail Draggers.” If you are a fan of the blues, this is the one not to miss.

For entries in the Lighted Boat Parade, which kicks off at 9pm at the Bitter End Marina, you must register at Ralph’s Café by 7pm. Fireworks extravaganza happens at 10pm. Folks around Bayview that have seen the other shows in the area, including Coeur d’Alene, swear the Bayview show is the best.

By Sunday, if everyone is still functioning, one last celebration when the Queen of Bayview gets crowned at Noon, also at Ralph’s Coffee shop. For information about Bayview Daze, contact Ralph at 208-683-2218.
Get the Moviefone Toolbar. Showtimes, theaters, movie news, & more!

U.S. constitution Saved, Once More

In the argument over the right to bear arms, too many people got hung up on the part that says," in order to maintain a well ordered militia," or some such. During revolutionary days, and even through our civil war, militias were raised by villages and towns throughout the nation and enlisted by group with the officers being voted on or appointed by the locals.

It was believed during those turbulent years, that an invasion by a foreign entity could most effectively be repulsed by local people with the arms the founding fathers allowed as a basic right in our constitution.

This need was also felt to be a detriment to any internal threat as well. Too many people apply 21st century solutions to problems without researching the why of the matter. Many modern day historians suggest that forties Germany would not have lost their Jewish population if Germans met the gestapo at the door with a shotgun.

We have enough gun control laws already. It is against the law for any convicted felon to own a gun. It is a huge factor, if you are convicted of a crime in which a gun is used. Mental incompetents have been prohibited from owning or possessing guns. We can pile law after law after law on this issue, and even had the Supreme Court upheld the Washington D.C. law, the criminals would still find a way to have guns. Only when free law abiding citizens have the right, also, is the field leveled, giving potential victims some protection.

It is not lost on me, that many of today's liberals believe the constitution of the United States is outmoded and needs "radical" overhaul. This document, properly enforced, has produced in just a little over 200 years, the single most successful nation on earth, and did so without abridging an individuals liberties. Not everyone in this country is successful, but most have the ability to be so, should they removed themselves from the streets and just try.

Bayview Daze Update

Bayview Daze is here again, featuring six bands leading off the festivities in a gigantic battle of the bands.

The most fantastic of a series of fireworks displays will happen this year. Bayview has, through the community fundraising efforts, increased the fireworks budget for this year by 50 percent. The real treat, though, is that if you are going to fireworks in Sandpoint or Coeur d'Alene or even Post Falls, you don't have to miss Bayview.

The reason? Bayview holds its display July 5, giving everyone the opportunity to double dip. The entire celebration stretches three days: July 4 through 6. The following is a schedule of events:

First up is the street fair. Arts, crafts and all kinds of neat stuff. If you haven't got your T-shirt from the Athol booth yet, here's your chance. Friday finds live music at JD's featuring Wyzer. Not to be upstaged, the Captain's Wheel presents the band, Comfort Zone. July 5 brings most of the events. Entertainment will be appearing all over town. From 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. the feature is a kids' fair downtown with "The Fun Guy." At 11 a.m. there will be a street parade, which travels from Third and Spruce down to Main Street, ending at the Community Center. Entries must be lined up by 10 a.m.

It is also advised that those who are planning to attend the parade, get to town early while there are still a few inches of parking to spare. Following the parade, cars will be displayed at the Scenic Motel for Show and Shine. Parade awards will be presented at Ralph's Internet Coffee house at 2 p.m.

JD's will feature two bands on July 5: Afternoon features David Walsh, and the evening cranks up with the band, Four Times Over. From 4 to 8 p.m., the Bells will appear on the outside stage at the Captain's Wheel. As a special treat, from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. on the main stage inside at the Wheel, the nationally acclaimed band, Too Slim and The Tail Draggers will play. If you are a fan of the blues, this is the one not to miss.

For entries in the Lighted Boat Parade, which kicks off at 9 p.m. at the Bitter End Marina, you must register at Ralph's Cafe by 7 p.m. The fireworks extravaganza happens at 10 p.m. Folks around Bayview who have seen the other shows in the area, including Coeur d'Alene, swear the Bayview show is the best.

By July 6, if everyone is still functioning, one last celebration will be the crowning of the Queen of Bayview at noon, also at Ralph's Coffee shop. For more information about Bayview Daze activities, call Ralph at 208-683-9107.

George Carlin 1937-2008

There are special people that leave us every day. Some of them are better known than others. George Carlin was such a man. Many think he was the guy that created the "naughty breakthrough." He certainly did that, but he did much more.

This man was the world's best at cutting through the bullshit. He could take a human condition, look at it, and reduce it to it's basics. Carlin would be more famous for pointing out the "forbidden words," that couldn't be mentioned on television. When he did that, he opened up the hypocrisy of a society that used these forbidden words everyday on the streets and in the offices of the nation, but could not be admitted to on TV. Kind of like Lucy and Dezi sleeping in twin beds, because to suggest that married people slept together was suggestive.

George Carlin was the master of the ridicule and pointed it at the absurdities of the system in entertainment. He was the boss. A verbal magician. You either liked him or hated him. That, I believe was because he made you look into yourself. Sometimes people didn't like what they found there. The one thought, as I end this tribute, is that without George Carlin, UBob wouldn't have had a vocabulary.

I will miss this giant of a man, and a man that was funny just because he was real.

Cops can be helpful, Too

Sometimes, when you call a cop it’s not to report a crime. In a case most recently, it was for help. This intrepid reporter received a call for assistance from two widely respected members of the community. Bob and Suzanne Rickel, retired farmers started getting pesky notices in the mail from someone claiming to be New York City. They stated that a jeep was illegally parked in the City October 28, 2007, registered to the Rickels. We followed our own advise, and called a cop.

The Rickels in fact do own a jeep. It’s a 1954 model that has been in storage for over ten years, then transported to Suzanne’s brother by trailer to Seattle. The plates, supposedly Idaho number 9875, still reside here in Bayview at the Rickel residence. Enter Captain Ben Wolfinger of the Kootenai county Sheriff Department. We requested his assistance. Captain Wolfinger ran the plate and verified it is the number registered to the Rickels. By the time Wolfinger got involved, the notices had got nastier and more frequent, ending in a default judgement of $107.38.

After determining the facts, Captain Wolfinger graciously mailed a letter to New York City explaining that one, the Rickels had never been in New York City, nor were they likely to go there in the future. Two, the car in question was not white, as the parking ticket revealed, but dark green. The third and we hope the deciding factor, is that the car in question is 54 years old and while restored, isn’t capable of such a journey. One can only hope that the largest bureaucracy in today’s world will understand. If not, Captain Wolfinger does not anticipate his cooperation in an attempt to extradite the alleged offenders.

Many of you have been following the trials and tribulations of little Amber Newton, terribly burned last January. Since then, she has been in and out of hospitals. Several fund raising events have been held. Bayview has a woman that just can’t stay away from someone that needs help. Terry Shepherd, owner of Terry’s Café decided to do something about it. She started a raffle, then invited the community to a burger BBQ with all funds to go toward the Newton’s Sunday was the big day. Some peripheral fund raising is still out there, but from the raffle itself, over $1400 was collected. At deadline, there were still funds outstanding and more information to be gathered. We will report back next week on that progress. We did learn that there is an account set up at the Rathdrum branch of the Panhandle State Bank in the name of Amber Newton for those that wish to contribute.

Summer is heading into high gear with events happening all over the place. Post 149 Athol American legion is holding a charity poker run for both bikes and four wheelers June 28. The route for the bikers is from the Pastime in Athol then The Bonners Ferry Legion post, Popeye’s in Priest River, Curley’s in Hauser, The Captain’s wheel in Bayview then back to the legion in Athol. Contact the Legion at 683-2614 for details.

Saturday night features the Riverside Band at the Captain’s wheel along with some great food. Bayview Daze is just around the corner with the key day being July 5. A street fair will be set up for all three days, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, followed by A street parade Saturday and a brand new fireworks display Saturday the 5th. A boat parade will lead off at dusk, followed by the fireworks. This year, a 50% increase in funds were voted by the Bayview Chamber of commerce. Visitors are urged to donate when they come out to enjoy the festivities. This entire show is paid for by voluntary donations. The first queen will be crowned in over 20 years Sunday at noon at Ralph’s coffee shop. A special Bayview Daze treat is in store for Saturday night revelers. Too slim and the Tail Draggers will appear on the main stage, with the Bells handling the daytime duties on the lawn outside. We have leaned that Too slim has moved out of the shadow of Spokane/Coeur d'Alene, where they were immensely popular back in the early 90's, to a national stage, and seldom play small gigs like this. It may be the only chance to ever see them again.

Sometin' Is Sure Going Around

We just learned recently that Larry Justus has been hospitalized with blood clots in his lungs and some related heart difficulties. He seems to be responding to treatment and hopefully will be home soon. For those of you that do not know him, Larry & Liz operate the Lakeland RV park adjacent to the post office in Bayview.

I've been busy and remiss relative to posting on this blog. As I mentioned previously, I have a new gig. I have been driving a Limo for Rusty's sports Bar in Hayden. For those that aren't sure where that is, it's right next to the Holiday Inn express on Orchard between Government Way and Hwy 95. The Limo is a stretch Cadillac that will seat about seven in a pinch. The service is free. I drive with tips only as my income. So far, most people have been very generous. We can pick you up and take you back home if you live fairly close to the bar. Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays are the nights this service is available. For a pickup it is best to call ahead about an hour to make sure the limo will be there for you. 772-2400

Wednesday nights feature Karaoke. Saturday nights usually have live music. If you haven't seen a good friend lately, chances they can be found at Rusty's, the new "IN" place to be.

2008 Bayview Daze

It's almost that time of year again. We are in the middle of June, and in just three weeks, the sun will be beating down upon us while we watch 4th of July festivities. While there are great fireworks many places on the 4th, we need to remind you that in Bayview, we march to a different drummer. Bayview Daze does coincide with the 4th, but only kinda. The Bayview Chamber of commerce, realizing that to really party down, one has to limit their activities to week-ends. The calendar doesn't always cooperate. Last year the 4th was on a Wednesday. The simple formula in those cases is to use the nearest Saturday to the 4th as fireworks day. Next year, we will be just like everyone else. That is only because the 4th finally falls, as it should, on Saturday.

The moral of this story is this: Go out, enjoy yourselves anywhere on the 4th, then trek on down to Bayview, Saturday the 5th. We have a three day street fair. A parade Saturday Morning, at 11:00, (get here by 10 for parking) A lighted boat parade at 9:00 pm, Fireworks at 10:00. This year, even though the show has always been spectacular, the Chamber added a 50% increase in funding. This is probably one of the only local venues that regardless of the state of the woods around us, we are safe, insofar as the fireworks are always sent up over the lake, from a barge in the lake. Unlike Lake Coeur d'Alene, our pyrotechnicians haven't ever had to dive off because of an unplanned on board explosion.

In addition to the usual festivities, this year we are resuming the Queen contest. One that has been dormant for many years. Rather than the usual beauty contest, this one is open to ladies 8 to 80. Judging will be based on more practical things, like which contestant raises the most in fireworks donations. The only hard and fast rule in this contest, is that Ralph can't enter. Speaking of Ralph, call 683-2218 for details.

Stuff I'm Doing

I thought I would give everyone a break. By that, I mean I'm going to take a break from opinionating just this once. Why? Because I'm doing some exciting fun stuff now. Most of you know that I write a column for the Spokesman-Review. I've had a great time doing just that. Since about April of last year, I've written about 90 columns dealing with every thing from features to hard news when it happens in front of me. I have, and still do, enjoy the heck out of doing this, and hope to continue. Still, with budget cuts, every time I turn around, I'm being hit with budget crunches that threaten to cut back on what I have accomplished in the last year. I do not know where this is going, but I suspect it's the old "do more with less syndrome."

Very recently, I have jumped into a gig with my old pal, Kim Gittel, owner of Rusty's sports Bar in Hayden. Kim, concerned with the numbers of customers that enter his establishment, then drink more than is good for them, bought a Cadillac Stretch Limousine. The plan, is to ask customers to ride home free with our limo, leaving their cars at the bar. If you haven't guessed yet, I'm your driver. We have a further plan that will take a few weeks to break in. That is one that asks customers to call in, ask for a pickup time and day, then go pick them up, carry them to the bar and ... take them back home, absolutely free. Of course, you are expected to tip your driver, who is working for tips only. This service is only currently available Wednesdays (Karaoke night) Fridays and Saturday nights.

It seems to me, that this is a win-win deal. With Drunk Driving fines reaching into the four figure range, plus the license suspensions, not to mention the ten years or so of elevated insurance rates, chucking a twenty or even less to your driver is much the preferred solution. But the big plus, is that you won't hurt or kill someone going home from a night of revelry.

To call for a Limo, you can reach Rusty's at: 772-2400. Tell them when and where you wish to be picked up, give directions, then leave a call back number, so that your less than enlightened driver might call for directions, once he gets lost. Party On, my friends!

Democracy Has Enemies, Some From Within

I, for one, am not sick of the political rhetoric. This, as cumbersome as it may be, is the sound of liberty. Sure,it tends to be repetitive, sure it stinks of empty slogans, people lie, prevaricate, enlarge, distort, but have you people looked at the paper lately?

Zimbabwe: The current ruler had his chief opponent arrested because he caused an unlawful gathering of anti-government adherents,this during an election campaign.

No matter where you go in this world, democracy is a minority. Only here, and a few other countries,can you freely state your views, then freely vote on those issues or candidates that you prefer. I get angry with those of you that smug in your attitudes and/or prejudices, can't look beyond your political views, to see the humanity and the enlightened country we live in.

A country that allows even those that are around the bend, so to speak, to still make their points. I love this country, right wrong, and sometimes, just confused.

The headline tday, that caught my eye, was the one that told of a teen caught counterfeiting in the boys room. Wondering how the head could possibly fit any scenario I could think of, I clicked on the "More" thingee.

Folks, this is entertainment you just can't get anywhere. This young man carted a color printer into a restroom because he was homeless and didn't have a way to plug it in. Cops caught him printing brand new ten dollar bills.

When asked why, he replied, I'm homeless and didn't have anywhere to plug it in. It turns out that he was only going to print $90 so he could buy some Pot. My thinking here, admittedly somewhat jaundiced, is that with this kind of thinking, given a little capital, this guy could be our next CEO of a fortune 500 company. This needs encouragement, not suppression.

Tuesday ... A Tragic Day

Everyone in Bayview was shocked to learn that we lost three residents Tuesday. Ron Olson, former sales representative for Waterford Park Homes, Died of a massive heart attack. Life Flight was called in, but to no avail. Ron hadn't lived in the community that long, but he will be missed by many.

Two others, long time residents and outstanding citizens were lost the same day. Archie Orth, former commander of Legion Post #149, avid fisherman, golfer and fly fishing expert. died after a long battle with cancer. His funeral will be held Saturday, June 14 at 11:00 am at the Legion post in Athol.

Archie's Brother-In-Law, Cliff Hohnwaldt, former Legion club manager, also died, the same day. We haven't any details yet as to when or if services will be held. We'll write more as information becomes available.

Just Some Ranting

It would appear that after several years of chasing Osama , Republicans will now start chasing Obama. I sure hope that's where the similarity ends. We here in this country have enough problems what with 47 different positions on every issue. We certainly don't need suicide bombers, Kamikaze Pilots, or any other of the sick crap that passes for Islam.

Which brings me to the point. How, in this age of terrorists, are we going to be able to survive as a civilized nation, without being able to protect our borders. It isn't about Mexican farm labor. It's about anyone that believes we can catch terrorists that try to infiltrate our borders, if itinerant farmers and their wives and children can freely cross in large numbers. Hell, we can't even seal the borders of Iraq, or even Afghanistan, where the most dangerous borders are a few mountain passes.

In Afghanistan however, we could easily blow up the narrow passes into Pakistan, sealing off the border. The problem? political will. We are trying to create a Palestinian Nation, while protecting Israel's territorial integrity. Has anyone figured out how you can do that with the West Bank and Gaza separated by Israeli territory? Without geographically common borders, it's a joke. The best the do-gooders are going to be able to do is create two Palestinian Countries.

I'm not just griping about our present administration, but the past several. Where was Carter, or for that matter, Clinton. Did either of them say wait, this won't work? No. All of them are afraid to upset the Arab oil producers. Yes the oil producers, you know, the ones that after taking our money, want still more, then when they think we are on our knees, spend that money for weapons to destroy us.

If Armageddon is to be, I don't want it to happen while we are asleep at the switch. The liberals and environmentalists have tipped over so far, that no longer, or perhaps never, have they planned on unintended consequences. Can't drill for oil on the continental shelf. Can't drill in the Arctic. Can't build safe nuclear power plants. Why? Because since the sixties, nuclear, power has been held hostage by ban the bomb radicals that think bombs and power plants are one and the same.

Somehow, some way, we need to take our country back from extremists of all ilk and return to a practical existence. ... If we can find the way back.

Convention Junkies

This is for you, convention junkies. As the prospect of a brokered convention looms nearer, I thought, since I'm one of the few of us that actually is old enough to remember experiencing one or more, I'd pass on a few remarks.

Looking at the Clinton/Obama race and projecting Clinton hanging in, you might ask yourself, why is she doing this, when she has apparently lost. Don't forget the old adage, age and experience will win out over youth and naivete every time. There are other less polite versions of that adage, but I'm sure you get the idea.

The Clintons, while certainly not as all powerful as when Bill was president, still have many people in the party that owe much of their success to this couple. Sure, there are probably an equal amount that aren't a part of this group. The party machinery will kick in at the convention. When the pros take over, rulings from the chair, credentials committee and others will weigh in heavily.

If the delegate count holds up at the present level for each candidate, Obama will have the lead going into the convention, but not enough to secure the nomination. This is where wile and deviousness come in handy. (refer to the above paraphrased adage) States vary as to when,after how many ballots, etc. that their delegates are free to change their votes, but lets just pick the third ballot as an average.

After delegates are free to choose or to change their vote, the floor fight begins. It's a fight that the party professionals are adept at. All bets are off and its a mini-campaign all over again. I feel certain that this is the strategy that the Clinton crew are fixin' to exploit. Hey, there's judgeships to promise, federal jobs, the list goes on and on. It's not exactly pretty, but it works. Do any of you remember Kefauver vs. Stevenson? Maybe not. That was in the fifties. Stay tuned.

Knights of the Round Table squared off in battle Memorial Weekend, as the Society of Creative Anachronism held a fair at Farragut State Park. The annual trek of SCA members descended on the park for medieval fun and frolic as knights and wenches partied old style.

Craft and food booths lined the street as jousters practiced their trade in the field of battle. It wasn't the battle of Hastings, but after all, the original was 942 years ago. Also, King Harold of England wasn't there, nor was the victor, the Duke of Normandy, a transplanted Viking.

A large organization, the SCA is made up of men, women and children dedicated to the preservation of the old ways. Real old ways. Present at Farragut were somewhere between 150 and 200 participants, some handmaidens, many merchants and of course the battle-scarred warriors of old. As people left the encampment, the host said, "a safe journey."

Memorial Day at Post No. 149, Athol/Bayview American Legion, produced two ceremonies, one at Bayview, another at the Athol Cemetery. Following the formal ceremony, the Legionnaires performed a flag-retirement ceremony at the post. This consists of a ceremonial examination to determine the flag is worn out, then a formal burning of the flags thus chosen. Unlike protests of the past, this burning was out of respect for the flag.

Moving on to Bayview, the Babs and Bayview Community Council sponsored gigantic yard sale was in progress. One lucky shopper walked away with an electric bread-making machine and a camera tripod, both for $10 each. Bargain hunters were out in force as one person's junk became another's treasure.

Upstairs in the Community Center, the B.L.A.S.T, or Bayview Local Artists Show and Tell was going full 'um, ... blast. Artists, musicians and connoisseurs of both, flocked to the show, which produced some outstanding works by local artists. This paper doesn't have room for the great examples of artistry, and it's a shame. Some of the paintings, no all of them, were expertly done.

One in particular, a ghost horse ridden by a ghostly young couple across a stream and painted on a whitish background, was superb. It was painted by Bettie Bockstruck. Others, like Susie Snider with a painting of a team of horses, Brenda Hunt with a plethora of paintings, also showed great expertise.

Entertainment almost ground to a stop as the scheduled group, The Keep, had a family emergency and canceled at the last minute. Fortunately, The Captain's Wheel was able to find another popular group, Comfort Zone that was available and ably filled in. Both the Captain's Wheel and the Button Hook rocked with business as the official start of boating season kicked off for the traditional Memorial Day Weekend. Terry's Cafe was crowded too, as breakfast and lunch crowds flocked to the popular spot.

With Lake Coeur d'Alene pretty much off limits to boating due to flooding, the Bayview launch ramps were busy, as Lake Pend Oreille hasn't quite reached full pool. Ordinarily, the lake doesn't reach full pool until mid-June. Albeni Falls Dam wide open, the lake has come up all the way without help from regulators.

Essentially, the Clark Fork and other streams are delivering more water than the Pend Oreille River can remove. Look for Lake Pend Oreille to go over its banks too, if hot weather returns. Not since most of downtown Bayview flooded in 1997 have we seen the normally placid waters of Scenic Bay turn ugly.

Blast (Bayview local Artists Show & Tell)

I have never been accused of being overloaded with class, unless of course you include low class. Having said that, my uneducated, but enthusiastic trip to this local art show was an eye opener. I'm totally amazed at the talent that resides right here in Bayview.

Last Saturday, these artists put together a show & tell that was fabulous. We had several outstanding artists, some of which many of us never dreamed were such. The one that caught my un-artistic eye the most, was a painting titled,"Soul Mates." It was painted by Bettie Bockstruck. In it she captured two youths crossing a stream in a ghostly manner, while riding a horse. The figures, superimposed over a similar background were eerie and fascinating. If this were a contest for originality, I'd have given her the first prize, hands down.

Above are a few of the artists and their work, starting with Susie Snider painting a team of horses, then Brenda Hunt, a pretty picture herself, then my favorite painting by Bettie Bockstruck, "Soul Mates."

Free the Families

Well, we have had the good and the bad from Texas. Horrible weather, floods, droughts, famine, pestilence. Texas has also produced the beginnings of the beef industry, the reputation of fighters, sloggers, and of people that overcame humongous challenges. Most of the development of the far west came from cattle country in Texas. When no body else would go west for fear of the plains tribes, the Texans did. When the Mexicans fought the Republic of Texas at the Alamo, there were Americans, Mexicans and many others that fought to the death, so that Texas would be free.

Texas is an interesting state. Born not from an English colony, it was originally a part of Mexico, albeit an area that wasn't terribly fond of Mexico City and the Texicans that represented both cultures. Texas, unlike other states, came not from annexation of US territories, but was, after breaking loose form Mexico,an independent state, the Republic of Texas. It is rumored that Texas is the only state in the present union that still carries in it's annexation charter, the right to secede from the union, having not been a part of the U.S in it's infancy.

Comes the present historical period, and U.S. law. As was presented to the "Church of Later Day Saints," or as commonly known, the Mormon Church, back in the 1800's. At that time, the U.S. government told Utah, either drop plural marriage, or don't plan on being a part of the United states. The church folded, finding suddenly that yet another revelation had miraculously occurred.

Now we come to the present. A period that finds for many years, a nod and a wink toward multiple wives. I can't comment intelligently about the religious content, except only to say that it appears the adaptation of plural wives developed on the trek west, where when a breadwinner was killed by Indians or others, the wife was brought into the family of other relatives.

I know it has taken a long time for me to come to the subject of this post, but I felt a need to do background, so as not to appear to be another empty blog post without any merit. My point here is that the debacle in Texas, without apparently any due process of law, resembles other posts that I have featured, regarding abuses of child Protective Services.

Today we learn that all 400 plus children that were seized in the raid on the breakaway Mormon compound in Texas, were taken from their mothers illegally. Something most of us probably figured out already. It becomes obvious that after this all plays out, the children will be back with their moms and siblings. What isn't obvious, is the trauma that was handed down by the authorities to the families involved. Some will probably never emotionally recover from the trauma of being torn from their mother's arms.

In summation, it would seem that one or two accommodations could have been reached. One, Texas authorities could have just laid down the law as to minimum marriage ages. Two, the young participants, none of which have been heard from, could be required to sign a statement saying that they agree to the marriage of their own free will.

A Village Grieves

On a very sad note, the Coeur d'Alene Police reported that a motor vehicle/motorcycle accident happened near Cenex on Government Way Friday Night. Killed was Nathan Peck of Bayview. Nathan is the son of Neil and Debbie Peck and the Grandson of Al & Edie Peck. Nathan and his Mom, Debbie, are widely known for the Salee Creek gardens that produce fresh produce and flowers for the area. Nathan was 32 and was riding an almost new motorcycle when a vehicle turned onto the road in front of him. Attempting to avoid the truck, he layed his bike down, but it wasn't enough. The Pecks are long time residents, parts of the family having been here since Bayview was founded at the turn of the last century, in the early 1900's.

Several gravel pits are still owned by members of the family and Neil Peck in manager of Bayview Water & Sewer. Not only does the community grieve for a lost Son, but the loss of the Garden at Salee Creek will be huge to many.

Over the Top

The Bayview Chamber of Commerce met last Tuesday. Along with a plethora of candidates seeking various positions in county or state government, was a check presented to the treasurer by Ralph Jones, Vice-President. While some would wonder why that wouldn't be good news to everyone, some didn't think so. One such individual got in Ralph's face after the meeting to exclaim that he should have refused the money, or at least tore the check up, immediately. Why, you might ask would someone want to do something that crazy? Well, it had to do with the giver of this gift for the fireworks fund,Bob Holland, CEO of Waterford Park Homes and Waterford Park Marinas.

Last year, I myself received on behalf of the Chamber, a check for $2000 from another marina operator, Scenic Bay Marina. I too was chastised my some narrow minded people. At some point people, you are going to have to look into the mirror for the purpose of finding out whether you like the person you see. When attitudes get so radical that all practicality is thrown out the window, that labels you as a radical.

What we need more of in this community is cooperation. A coming together. I personally would like to see the Chamber newsletter and the twin published by the Bayview Community Council, combined to both save money, and to attempt cohesiveness. This town used to specialize in tolerance. Rich people rubbed elbows with others that are down and almost out, and everyone in between. Since developers have descended upon Bayview, we have been so emotional about the changes that appear to be inevitable, that very few are thinking straight.

It is past time to start thinking about returning to those days of tolerating all of our neighbors, not just those that agree with us or that are equally rabid. Anyone and everyone should thank donors regardless of the person donating. This is just good manners. apparently some in the community have lost track of that most valuable trait. Business owners, such as marina operators, maybe especially marina operators, benefit the most by the publicity and participation of those tourists that flock into town for Bayview Days. As such, it is reasonable and proper that these business contribute larger amounts than the average resident. Good manners don't cost a thing. Bad manners cost your humanity, and show lack of class.

Candidates Visit Bayview

The above candidates for public office appeared last night at the Bayview Chamber of commerce meeting, vying for votes in the primary, Tuesday after Memorial Day weekend.

From top to bottom, Rick Currie, incumbent County commissioner, District 2, Phil Hart, State Representative, pos B, incumbent, David Rawls, challenger for State Rep. Pos B, former School District Superintendent, Jim Connell, Senate candidate, Dist 3, Jai Nelson, Candidate for County commissioner, District 2. Not shown, Tim Herzog, challenger for County commissioner, Dist 1.

Residents were treated to a meet the candidate night which has not been terribly typical until recently. Currie, however, to his credit, manages to attend most monthly meetings. The hot contests this year appears to be for Currie's seat on the commission and Hart's seat in the legislature. It appears that we have some good choices for all offices. This blog will not officially endorse any candidate, due to recent changes in the Spokesman-Review ethics rules regarding attaching ones self to a political campaign.

I will say, however, that with the possible exception of failure of the current County commission to pass what could have been a county wide restriction on building heights, outside incorporated cities, I believe this commission has done a passable job, though could improve, especially in the area of letting the legal department legislate. Sometimes, the right thing to do shouldn't hinge on whether a lawyer thinks a lawsuit might ensue.

Having said that, all speakers attending, were bright, articulate and would make fine choices. But throwing the incumbents out every election cycle isn't the answer either. Bonner county has been known for single term office holders for a long time, and in some quarters is held in ridicule for not being able to govern itself. It would be sad to see the same "dump the losers," mentality take over in Kootenai county. Starting over anew with office holders needing to be trained into operational effectiveness should only be used in extreme situations. It takes experience in any endeavor to be effective.

Stimulus Check

We have been told that we are about to receive some largess from our father who art in Washington, D.C. Just last week, we were told that a check was in the mail. I was totally enthused, until I remembered how many times in my youth, I uttered those very same words.

Came the internet. The IRS in their absolute loyalty to us, the guys & gals that actually finance their follies, have been given a web site, where we can determine at what stage our tax dollars are being doled back to us. I became awed at their concern for us. Even after figuring out that they had already torked us down for the money, now, rather than admit they didn't need the money after all, they are going to give us a gift.

If you guessed that I haven't received my check yet, you win the prize. Hark! Comes yonder blessings from above. We now have an internet address that will confirm where our previous donation is, in the path back to our pockets. This address is: sa2.www4.irs.gov/irfof/jrserviet?app=iractc.

Now this looks like a rather basic exercise, doesn't it? Whoa, except for one thing. When you call them at the above mentioned address, the line is busy. This attempt, not because I was so broke I needed it right now, but because I did this for you. I have come to realize, that the whole gesture was for nought. You see, by the time you finally can log on to this site, you will have already got the check.

In any event, these are the target dates for rebates:

If the last two digits in your Social Security number fall within the following ranges, you can expect your rebate check by the following dates:

00-09 May 16
10-18 May 23
19-25 May 30
26-38 June 6
39-51 June 13
52-63 June 20
64-75 June 27
76-87 July 4
88-99 July 11

Public Beach: Could it Happen?

During the last week here in Bayview, Idaho, an idea has cropped up that has been raised for years. Bayview, kind of like strip cities that had grown up astride a major highway, didn't get planned. It just evolved. Starting out during the forties as a navy town, it became a spot for people that live elsewhere, to park a trailer or build a cabin for summer use. No provisions were ever made for public access to the lake, except in Farragut State park.

Recently, Ralph Jones, learning that Waterford Park Marinas had put five waterfront RV parking spots up for sale at a cool $99,000 each, decided to try to create a public beach. First, he went to the Engineer, employee of Waterford Park, Dennis Scott with the idea. He suggested that by donating, or at least lowering the price of the lots, people would step up with enough money to buy these out and create a public beach. Bob Holland, while not committing to anything, suggested he would be willing to talk.

Much would have to be done, both in the planning and acquisition stages, but the sea wall,according to the Idaho Department of Lands, which is an illegal encroachment into the lake bed, and Bayview Creek, which was also diverted, buried, piped and turned into an outlet pipe high above the lake level, needs to be made whole. Bayview needs a place for families to lie on the beach. All of this could happen, if, Kootenai County can find a way around the 25 foot setback for natural vegetation, which is a county ordinance. If, the ordinance has a variance clause, it may be possible to accomplish this. Department of Lands has been queried, and doesn't seem to have a problem.

The project is in it's early stages, but County commissioner, Rick Curry is looking into the plan, and seems to favor a County owned public beach if it can be accomplished. Ralph has bit off a big hunk with this dream. One can only hope that it comes to reality.

Objectivity & Credibility

After pretty much tanning bob Holland's butt over the last year or so, with errors in judgement, and or telling it like it is, I was criticized recently for a column that actually praised him. It is necessary at this point to explain, that if I gang up on someone just because nobody likes him or what he does or is,it suggests that I will consistently do so.

Two words and every meaning of those words are at play here. The first, would be objectivity. Since I set out on my journey as a rather long in the tooth correspondent for the Spokesman-Review, I agreed with the S/R not to embarrass them with wild-eyed stuff that would call into question my objectivity or fairness. That applies to my blog as well as the published stories.

While most people in town agreed with many of my posts and or articles, not all will or did. That's OK. Anyone that is looking for 100% acceptance is probably smoking a banned substance.

The second point is credibility. If I were to march in lock step with any faction here in Bayview, even if most of the time I agree with their positions,I will or would have lost credibility, since I would have made it obvious that I am not objective, do not care about facts but am only interested in furthering an agenda.

I don't know when I lost the respect of those that thought I would never write anything good about Bob Holland, but then maybe I never had it. Maybe those persons considered me as a tool to further their own agendas. I am sorry, not about what I wrote, but about the loss of what I thought was respect and acceptance from those few that disagreed with me. I have to, for my own self respect adhere to the above words. Words that I live by.

Blogging vs Civility

I started blogging with the encouragement of Dave Oliveria of the Spokesman-Review blog, Huckleberries around three years ago. During that time, many changes have happened. During the early years,some thought of the blog as an open chat room where anything went. They were wrong. Some left in a huff because those of other political persuasions offended them. I kind of hung around, realizing that among those shrill voices was an occasional pearl of wisdom.

I started my own blog, and as the years passed, changed directions several times. Now that I am writing for the Spokesman-Review, I feel a responsibility to not carry that image down, and have toned my invective down. Objectivity in journalism is the name of the game. Outside of columns and editorials, news is supposed to be news, not your personal opinion. Most of the time that works.

Still, on the blog, and I just finished perusing the Huckleberries blog, stopping to comment as needed, the blog that has nurtured me from the start,is deteriorating into a shrill,emotional lack of knowledge, and so blatantly biased, as to insult the casual reader. You see, even if it is terribly satisfying to vent all of your prejudices out loud in front of God and everybody,don't you think that backing an opinion with logic and thoughtful discourse would be more enlightening?

Every subject, it seems, that brings a national issue, or even a local one, to bear, attracts a mob of less than literate snobs of whatever political persuasion, into a mob of people akin to those that turn over buses and set fire to things that have no connection to the people they oppose. If there are any people that would like to comment on these issues that can actually read this then intelligently reply, I would welcome those comments.

Farragut Harbormaster Shed

L-R Norma Jean Knowles, representing Waterford Marinas and Linda Hackbarth, savior of the shed in the process of being removed from the trailer that transported it ot the park.


Sitting lonely atop a naval boat shed, next to a few on the navy side that still exist sat the U.S. Navy harbor master shed. From 1942 through 1944, the hyperactive training base taught small boat handling with whale boats and cutters, swarming in and out of the small harbor at what was for years after the war, Bayview Marina. From this lofty perch, a local man, Haven Berg directed traffic, counted the boats that left and accounted for the same number that returned. Built by two other local men, Bill Bockstruck and Harold Stewart, this cupola stood sentinel over the comings and goings of boat traffic from then to 2006, when the marina was tore down in preparation for a new rebuilt, modern dock system.

The old roofed docks were patched together with a wish and a prayer, the pilings having been driven back in the forties. rotted off then spliced, they stood, kind of, until the wreckers came. One person, Linda Hackbarth, a noted local historian, noticed the shed, still perched above the marina, and asked then manager of Waterford Park Marinas, Tina Arendt, if it could be saved. The question was put to President, Bob Holland, and he approved the effort to rescue this last remaining artifact from Naval presence.

Hanging out in Arizona at the time, Hackbarth wa unaware that her wish was about to be granted. On her arrival back in Bayview, Idaho, lo and behold, there it was,sitting high and dry on the front lawn of the Boileau's Marina. Then the year long quest for a home started. Thinking the existing navy base would be the proper home,negotiations were started, but to no avail. It seemed that security would be breached if the hut were to be mounted in front of the navy base entrance.

Finally, the Brig museum at Farragut State Park was queried. Would they be interested? Boy howdy were they. They jumped all over the chance to obtain this one last artifact from World War 11 for their collection. Tuesday, April 31, the shed found a home. With the cooperation of Bob Holland, Dave Vig, construction superintendent, and a large cast of caring players, it was transported to the brig, where it will be completely restored to it's original condition, which strangely enough is still pretty good. When it is done, it will rest on a pedestal inside the courtyard at the brig for sailors coming back for yet another reunion will be able to enjoy it.

Haven Berg is gone lo these may years, but the shed will be preserved for future generations to learn from. Linda Hackbarth, sometimes laboring under lack of appreciation and even disrespect, has yet again graced the community with her love.