Wine Tasting A Smash Hit

First photo, is Jan Larkin next to the official centennial flag. Jan is a great example of the heart and soul of Bayview.

Busy hostesses at the sign in desk: Jan Larkin, Kathy Ellis and Melinda Ely.

The third is a shot of the hors douvres being served.

The first big event planned for this the centennial year of Bayview, sponsored by the Bayview Centennial committee was held Saturday afternoon. Typically,
dick and Shirley Hansen made the B & B, Dromore, available for the event. Daughter, Cami Duclose,manager of the facility turned out a magnificent party. The real heros and predominently heroines of this bash were the tireless ladies and guys that put this all together. I don't have a list of all participants and surely I'll catch hell for missing some key people. Having said that, We can't leave out key folks like Tom & Jackie Lloyd, Melinda Ely,Linda Hackbarth, Kathy Ellis, Kathy Clark, Bonnie Hulstrand, Luarie Maurer, Jim Wilkuski Zak and many others made this whole event possible.

More than a year ago, plans began to form for the purpose of honoring Bayview's Centennial year, 2010. A number of summer long events are planned starting with this the first one. Over 70 guests were present to sample good but not expensive wines that were selected by the wine steward for Fred Meyer Stores.

Much, but not all of Bayview's finest were present wither as guests or of the sponsoring committee. Community leaders from far and wide, including some very interesting folks that away from their official duties, tend to have just as much fun as most of the rest of us, in spite of the images that are necessary to keep up. Those will go unmentioned. Please e-mail me with any corrections or additional names that I have missed.

Memorial Day week-end will host some additional events with a walking tour of Bayview's historical landmarks. A BBQ will be held at the Bayview Community Center as well, topped off by a dedication of the new Bayview centennial sign at the entrance to Bayview.

Above are some photos of the event.

For those that I informed that the first installment of my Spokesman-Review history of Bayview series would appear Sunday, April 18, I was unintentionally sandbagged. My editor assured me it would appear on that date, but a serious illness in the family apparently short-circuited the effort. Hopefully, we can straighten this out next week.

Dan English, County Clerk

We have had in the last several years, a very smooth running County clerk's office. The clerk happens to be our token democrat, but wait. This guy is good. He's dedicated and the offices under the clerk are running smoother than ever. This year, for the first time, Dan English has a challenger. A good man, a republican and former Post Falls Police chief.

Now I know that Chief Hayes is a good man. Running a police department is also a place where administrative skills are needed. It would appear that the chief is more into have credibility, will travel, than a driving ambition to run the clerk's office. That is, unless he is thinking after the debacle of the Coeur d'Alene City council contest, one that rivals the last Bush election in Florida, he can swing stuff to his GOP buddies.

This of course, is surmisal on my part, not news, not fact. just a dirty little suspicion as to the motives. Lately, I've been cringing in a corner, ashamed of those in my own party that in many cases have lost their senses. In an atmosphere that doesn't seem to brook any disagreement or honest debate, the extreme right is trying to hijack our county, our city.

While I don't support many democrats, it is for the same reason I'm disenchanted with my own party. It is spelled cranks, left and right wing extremists and office seekers that wish to further polarize our political system. It isn't just here, it is endemic across our country

As I did last election, I support and endorse Dan English as the best County clerk we've had in a long while. He serves as a non-partisan office holder. I remember an occasion that a service member was shipping out to either Iraq or Afghanistan and wanted to marry his sweetheart before he left. It was a Saturday and the county offices were closed. They called English at home up on Twin Lakes with the problem. He drove down, met the lovers at the administration building and personally issued the license.

I am firmly of the belief that regardless of political affiliation, Dan English is a great County clerk. I support his without reservation. I have to apply one of my most important principles here. "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

Weather Or Not

Well, today was/is breezy. Actually, quite windy. Here in Bayview, the storm pruned a few trees but no fallen ones. Having high ground on three sides helps alot when the wind comes from the West. Power has been uninterrupted too.

Boaters are starting to tentatively head for the water in preparation for real Spring. The restaurant situation is bleak right now in Bayview, as both sit down full service restaurants are closed. Chan Krupiah is working hard to get the Buttonhook open by the first of May. We wish him good luck, since it doesn't appear that the Captain's Wheel will survive the melee between owners. As usual in these matters everyone ends up losing.

Toblers Marina is close to opening their boat repair facility at JD's and will probably be open by the first of May, also.

My column in the Spokesman-Review will publish this Sunday with a family picture of the Haddon's. Bayview's first settlers were Elmer and wife Ozelia and eleven kids. Jessica who lives in Bayview, is the great-great-granddaughter of Elmer & Ozelia. The first installment of the four part series on Bayview's centennial will publish on April 18, God willing and the creek don't rise.

Speaking of the centennial, most business owners have stepped up with nice sized donations, joining over fifty caring citizens of Bayview to fund centennial activities.

News Flash From Farragut

During the weekend of April 9th through April 11th the Idaho Army National Guard will be holding a training exercise at Farragut State Park. The purpose of the training is to prepare those members of the Guard that may see active service oversees with field exercises that will mimic the dangerous situations that they may face. Normally such training exercises would be held at the shooting ranges, but due to the judicial closure the park will be accommodating the Guard with the Scott Field area.

This training is not open to the public, and does include the firing of blank ammunition and simulated ied’s. Visitors to the park over the weekend can expect helicopter use in and around the Scott Field area, numerous military vehicles on the north side roads, and to see fully outfitted members of our military around the Scott Field and adjacent areas.

Randall Butt
Park Manager, Farragut State Park and Coeur d'Alene Lake Parkway
13550 E. Highway 54
Athol, ID 83801
208-683-2425 ext. 23
fax 208-683-7416

News N' Stuff

Easter weekend is here and the kids will find plenty of goodies in the grass in Bayview. Starting at 10:00 am at the community center will be the little tykes of 6 and under. 10:30will be for over 6 to 12 at the Scenic Apartments lawn on Main St.

Athol will have an egg hunt too. The American Legion Auxiliary is sponsoring the hunt which will be held at Athol city park.Ages up to 12 are invited and will be separated by age groups. 1:00 pm for Athol so the ambitious can hit both events.

Kicking off the centennial year celebrations will be the "Taste of Bayview." This is a gourmet wine tasting party featuring the wine steward from Fred Meyer Stores. Daniel Park picked out the wines and food (hors d'oeuvres) Daniel will give a talk on wine and food pairing of which both will be present for sampling. Seven wines from Europe, south America and the USA were selected for this event.

Everyone will receive an etched Centennial Keepsake Goblet as they enter the manor to use throughout the tasting venue as well as a menu listing the wines by name and characteristics with an area for note taking. You will be able to experience each wine cleanly and at the end of the tasting, each guest will be able to select a full glass of their preference from the tasting menu. Oh, and you get to keep the etched centennial goblet.

Tours of the Dromore B & B and grounds including the historic Washington Brick & Lime house next door to the main building which at one time was a post office. Special Thanks to the always community supporters, owners, Dick and Shirley Hansen, and daughter, Cami Duclos for donating Dromore for this event. All proceeds will go to the Centennial Committee for centennial events this Summer. For reservations, call Melinda Ely at 208-683-0936 or e-mail: elymelinda@yahoo.com.

Time To Let Go

There is a time to campaign for or against something, and there is a time to let go. Such is the case with the Health Care Issue. It passed. the president signed it and I personally think it is a disaster waiting to happen.Having said that, beating a dead horse is futility.

Several states are suing the federal government based on constitutional issues.They will either win or lose. Nothing we as individuals can do about the situation other than alienate more people by angry outbursts. Anger after the fact is not going to change a damn thing. Get over it. At some point, the lawsuit will play out and or mid-term elections will wipe out the majority the democrats have. Two more years and we can count out one more one-term democrat.

Fortunately, as in Carters case, where he did monumental damage, it was all repairable. This won't be the first nor the last that an ineffectual or worse, deliberate enemy of our way of life becomes president. Starting with the 1960 election of John F. Kennedy to the present, television has ruled elections. It's about one's speaking ability, rather than substance. That will get you one term. Muddying about going every which direction with policy will get you retirement. ... Peace, my friends. There will be another day.

Islamic Armageddon

Having spent almost seven years in our military service, I can tell you two truths. One, regardless of the B/S that the generals dish up, they don't give a fiddler's damn about the comfort or entertainment of the troops.

Two, the military has always been political, but in the last thirty years it has been atrocious, as the troops are used as pawns for window decorations with other governments. Hey, even our president, commander-in-chief of the armed forces, could not care less. The sensibilities of the countries we are trying to rescue is more important than good morale of the ones dying for them.

I've come to the conclusion that either we declare war on Islam, or retreat immediately to the gulf, protecting the oil shipment lanes and Saudi Arabia. If a nuclear threat occurs, we have more than they do. A new Crusades will make Viet Nam look like a warm-up.

We are not going to change the habits of a religion that has vastly different views on life than us. Equal rights are guaranteed to us through our constitution, but not theirs. Their views on women are repugnant to us, yet none of our business. Sending a female secretary of State, be it Clinton or her republican predecessor to an Arab or oriental country to negotiate is considered in their culture as a slap in the face. If we, as has been shown, do not know what the hell we are doing, we should not enter the fray.

Invasion?

The long expected UN invasion of this country from Canada with black helicopters has apparently began. Everything from Homeland Security, FBI, County Sheriff rigs and many others descended upon Bayview Today. One such helicopter has been hovering over Scenic Bay for most of the day.It appears that the winter population has tripled as the effort to protect security at the Naval Research Facility here has began.

Actually, no UN troops or black helicopters from Canada are involved.But the security drill is as realistic as can be made. Woe unto the person that calls Kootenai County Sheriff Department with a problem elsewhere, since most of their deputies seem to be here in Bayview.On the other hand, most of our suspicious characters seem to be out of sight today. All of those uniforms may have scared some of them straight, and others to quietly leave town.

Health Care Passes ...On The Backs Of The Elderly.

From the wire:

"To pay for the changes, the legislation includes more than $400 billion in higher taxes over a decade, roughly half of it from a new Medicare payroll tax on individuals with incomes over $200,000 and couples over $250,000. A new excise tax on high-cost insurance policies was significantly scaled back in deference to complaints from organized labor."

"In addition, the bills cut more than $500 billion from planned payments to hospitals, nursing homes, hospices and other providers that treat Medicare patients. An estimated $200 billion would reduce planned subsidies to insurance companies that offer a private alternative to traditional Medicare." (So then, who is going to be the life or death Czar that determines what doctors couldn't afford to do ... Cut back on diagnostic tests)

I have two problems with this bill. Well, actually more than two, but these stand out. First, they are going to pay for this plan from cuts in medicare. Already, more than 50% of family practitioners are not accepting new medicare patients, due to low reimbursement. Some are even kicking their current medicare patients out of their practices. Now the government is saying, we'll cut back on doctor and hospital reimbursement for the funds to make this work. Yet again another unfunded mandate for the states to struggle with.

The second thing I have a problem with is that there was no tort reform included. "It isn't the high malpractice premiums that are driving costs up, but defensive medicine. When a doctor orders expensive tests that they don't feel is necessary, to avoid lawsuits." said my doctor, whose name will go unmentioned.Medical schools will watch a dwindling or maybe disappearing supply of doctors wanting to specialize in geriatric care.

Still, the 800 pound gorilla in the room is asking what then, are we going to do with our seniors? Stick them out on an ice flow in mid-winter like the ancient Eskimos did? No, they will end up on state welfare roles with medicaid, thanks to the federal government. Forget about the Wall Street crooks that got us, along with the help of congress, into this mess. The largest flim-flam ever perpetrated has just been acted upon by the representatives WE sent to do our business for us.

Every action, it is said, has an equal and opposite reaction. To coin another cliche, Robbing Peter to pay Paul is not good legislation. This was/is a desperation plan on the part of socialists to do what they could to nationalize as much as possible before the inevitable loss of power in the coming mid-term elections. Pulling stunts to avoid debate runs afoul of congress' own rules, that reconciliation not be used for anything other than evening out appropriations.

Look out for some interesting actions. 37 states including Idaho which has already passed their legislation, are setting up a massive lawsuit against our overreaching federal establishment. The next couple of years are going to be very interesting, that is if we survive the breadlines to come.

Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Bayview's Easter egg hunt,long sponsored by Terry Shepherd of Terry's Cafe and other community members, will be sponsored by the Bayview Chamber of Commerce this year. Saturday, April 3, the day BEFORE Easter Sunday is the date. Times and locations are: Under age 6 is at a new location this year. The Community Center lawn (Upper level)

Kids 6 through 12 will be where it was last year, the Bayview Scenic Apartment lawn. Big Easter Egg Hunt, prizes and candy.Under six at 10:00 am and 6-12 10:30am.

Bayview's Security Drill

The Navy, sheriff Department and Timberlake Fire District will hold a three day emergency preparedness training exercise. The Dates are: Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday, March 23, 24 and 25th. The Fire Commissioners open meeting has been rescheduled for the evening of the 22nd. The lower parking lot at the Bayview community Center and the entire building itself will be utilized for this exercise and will not be open to the public. If you see emergency vehicles careening about town during this period, do not panic, it's not the end times. Just stay out of the way. With not much going on in Bayview During March, this might even be entertainment of sorts...

You may see helicopters, fire engines, (yes from Timberlake) police and sheriff units. The exercise named, as all government programs are, is called, "Solid Curtain." FBI, state and local authorities will also be involved. Areas around the entrance to the Naval Research Facility will be busy and traffic may be disrupted. If so, it is suggested that cars use Perimeter Road to reach the traffic circle during these periods. This does not represent an emergency. It is a scheduled drill to test reaction times and problems associated with a potential breach in security.

Bayview & Pool

One of the more interesting developments that came from the closing of the Captain's Wheel Restaurant back in January, was it orphaned two pool teams. Wheel 1 and wheel 2 started playing League home games on alternate nights when other bars could host them. Then the real twist, was when Ralph Jones, owner of Ralph's Cafe, adopted the strays.

The reason it is a strange twist is that Ralph doesn't have a pool table. Being the civic minded person he is, he trotted out new shirts for the players. Wheel One, or I should say Ralph's 1, came in first. The end of season party that normally is hosted by the winning establishment, was generously given space Saturday by JD's. Only in Bayview.

2007-2013 Greater Depression

Depression Family circa 1935

Now that the federal government is finally admitting to a recession around two and one-half years after it started, people are asking how long will they have to endure. It's a difficult question to answer because there are so many things that got us here. This is, without the spin, a depression that is worse than any since the 1929-1937 big one.

Certainly not until 2013 and perhaps even longer. Many things got us here and the Federal Government sending us money will not pull us out. Not until our leaders realize that global free trade isn't free, unless your trading partners are buying from you in equal amounts. Electronics? All off shore. Steel and most aluminum? Yep! Clothing? Ahuh! Food? Much if not most processed food comes from China. You know, the country that spiked baby food with poison? Automobiles? Well, what with the bancruptcies of our Auto industry and now the giant leap off a cliff that Toyota just made, still to settle out, but as long as Obama wants to help you pay for your car, home,etc.with funny money, I guess people will still want to buy $5000 cars for $35,000.

We have been running trade deficits that are abhorrent for many years. We have shipped our heavy industry off shore, so as to not have to face high wages and the Sierra Club. We have even shipped our light industry off shore, all in the name of cheaper prices. Well, it doesn't help much to have cheaper prices, if the purchasing public are home out of work and can't buy anything, cheap or not. We used to get along without Chinese or Japanese cheap stuff just fine. We charged tariffs against the poorly paid labor of third world countries. This is how you level the playing field amongst dissimilar economies. When and if those other economies lift themselves up to our standard of living then and only then would we have free reciprocal trade.

It isn't about business screwing the public, it was the removal of tariffs and unlimited free trade that sent our industry overseas. Government and Industry tend to be dance partners. Well meaning legislation can torpedo an economy, just as happened. We must turn the page back a ways and realize that we had an economy and jobs because we did not join the global economy. For everyone in the world to be economically equal, we would have to lower our standard of living to average out with those making $2.00 per day in Malaysian or Chinese sweat shops. We unionized many years ago to avoid that part. Sure, the unions became too powerful and had to be slapped down some. Still, a balance between unions dictating policy to boards of directors, and workers being dominated and taken advantage of is necessary.

We started by giving up the gold standard, then the silver standard, believing that the US dollar was a world standard and didn't need to be backed by anything other than confidence, and that is where it begins and ends. Confidence, is deduced by those that totally believe in a currency. But currencies are backed by productivity. We no longer produce much of anything. The service industry, that of each career field supporting any other, as in a circle jerk is a false sense of security. I don't recommend that we return to the gold standard, or even the silver standard. But we must produce enough gross national product to offset our imports.

I see a possibility of an actual deeper depression coming unless our government starts thinking of us rather than the entire globe. There are areas of this world we live in that have never transcended from tribal life that can't even form a workable government outside their own tribal sphere, let along how to produce farm stuffs food and more importantly, develop a manufacturing economy. Politically, a chicken in every pot and universal home ownership just isn't going to work, hasn't worked and never will work.

Our schools are taught by either people with an agenda or those without a clue as to how business, industry and labor co-exist and why. Prejudices are fed from one generation to another, reflecting not what is happening now, but the grudges from yesterday. Wake up, people!

The United States of America once had an attitude. It was one of we can do anything we think we can do. Somewhere along the line, we have forgotten or don't care about the sacrifices that our parents and grandparents suffered to give us. We are now a nation of spoiled brats that feel the world owes us a living, without the intellect to figure out how we got it to begin with. I am totally disgusted with how this generation is turning out, and the waste of our forefathers and mothers efforts.

Some will criticize this post as being inflamitory. Perhaps they would be right, but I like the old saying, "Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst."

Bayview Happnin's

The Navy, sheriff Department and Timberlake Fire District will hold a three day emergency preparedness training exercise. The Dates are: Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday, March 23, 24 and 25th. The Fire Commissioners open meeting has been resceduled for the evening of the 22nd. The lower parking lot at the Bayview community Center and the entire building itself will be utilized for this exercise and will not be open to the public. If you see emergency vehicles careening about town during this period, do not panic, it's not the end times. Just stay out of the way. With not much going on in Bayview During March, this might even be entertainment of sorts...

Centennial activities are getting started with,"Taste of Bayview." This wine tasting extravaganza will be held at Dromore, April 17 2:00 to 5:00 pm. Wines will be open and airing, the punch chilled and tapas foods artistically arranged, while music wafts through the rooms. Dromore is located on Cape Horn Road, just past Lime Kiln Rd intersection. The tasting includes an etched keepsake Bayview Centennial Wine Glass. Beer and punch will be supplied for non-wine drinkers, plus hors d'ouvres. This is by reservation only so call now. Price is $25.00 per guest. Melinda Ely 208-6830936...

Another new business is coming to town, proving that nature hates a vacuum. The rumor from a year ago about Tobler's Marina moving into the shop next to JD's is finally proving true. Fritz Sander, formerly of Waterford LLC sales, is heading up a sales, repair, service and equipment store for Tobler's. With MacDonald's at past capacity, the addition is sorely needed. The opening date is somewhat loose, with the target being between the end of March and the middle of April...

No firm news yet on when or whether either the Buttonhook or the Wheel will open or when. Word on the street is the Buttonhook may open around Easter weekend, but nothing signed yet. Afteer a week of paper work confusion between the state and the Patio, the patio is now back open for you enjoyment.

The annual Easter Egg hunt is on again this year, with myself coordinating it along with Marie Streater and Norma Jean. We, as always need donations for the eggs & prizes. You can drop off donations at the Bayview Mercantile, or e-mail me.

Easter's Coming

As we did last year, many people pitched in to make Easter egg hunts continue. For years, Terry Shepherd out of her own pocket, sponsored the egg hunt. When she moved to spirit Lake we agreed to step in and help out. It's that time of year again and we can't disappoint our kids.

If you can die a few eggs, (we'll have an egg dying fest like last year.) Details to follow, or provide a few bucks or buy some plastic eggs and wrapped candy that would be great. Last year we held the dying party at the wheel, but since it ;probably will not be open, we will make other arrangements. We will also need help on Easter SATURDAY, am to hide the eggs. We have been doing this on Saturday, so that folks that wish to attend Easter services, can do so without depriving the kids of the more secular form of entertainment.

I'll post times, age groups and locations a bit closer to the event, E-mail me if you wish to participate in the preparations.

Herb

Fire District Crumbles

It is past time for fire commissioners to step up and put aside personal ambitions and/or vendettas. The current recall of one of the commissioners is extremely transparent to most as a power play.

Here are some of the worst case scenarios: With the recall petition's first 20 signatures all coming from Athol addresses, this might signal the beginning of a breakup of the consolidated fire district. Redistricting is a must, since state law requires that at least two commissioners be from Bonner county. This is because a small part of the fire district is in that county. The results if followed, would leave Bayview without representation. That is a position that would almost guarantee a split.

With two small enclaves in Bonner County, the end of Cape Horn and Little Blacktail Road, holding about two hundred residents, this would mean 40% of representation and supervision would be controlled by 5% of the district. fighting over control of the Titanic, as it were is not a proactive way to solve the district's problems.

I suggest that people calm down, stay far away from recall petitions and urge the current commissioners to go on a group sabbatical with consensus the goal. Chief Krill has upset the applecart in refusing to supervise unsafe equipment that past commissioners have let go for so long. All of those that created this mess are gone now, and pointing the finger for all ills at one 18 month commissioner is hardly fair and definitely destructive. The people have elected the commissioners we have. Live with it.

Minutes of every board meeting held in 2008 and 2009 are available on the fire district's web site. Get the facts about who tabled requests for funds and who didn't. It's all out there for anyone to see. Some object to the actions taken by the fire chief, yet he obviously felt a wake-up call was required. The time has past where we shoot the messenger, instead of the message.

Taxation Without Representation

One of the most pressing and least known about issues facing the Timberlake Fire district is the reallocation of commission seats. As it stands today, there are five commissioners, each elected at large, but residing in the districts that they run from.

Some years back there were territorial wars between Sagle Fire District and Timberlake. As a result of that, we have a Sagle fire station south of Little Blacktail Road, and up Blacktail, is a Timberlake Fire Station.

In the unintended consequences category, state law requires that when two counties are involved in a fire district, that the minority county have at least two board members. If followed strictly, this would mean that Bayview would become disenfranchised, even though with Cape Horn, the area represents about 55% of the fire district in population. Obviously this is unacceptable. With 5% of the population controlling 40% of the board of directors, some sort of reapportionment is in order. Not to protect any one's district, but to even things out so that the "One person, One vote" principle is upheld.

We have no quarrel with our friends just to the north, the hope that first, someone out on the cape living in Bonner County, run for the seat becoming vacant, and that the state be petitoned to see the inequity of the situation, so that the legislature might fix the problem. Without that, a lawsuit would be the only answer. I urge each and every one of you you contact you state legislators and ask for relief from this situation.

As issues develop within the district is is vital that this information gets out to those that are unaware that they are about to lose their commissioner. A petition to recall commissioner Jon Guinn is currently being circulated, with the apparent motive of removing as many pro-Krill commissioners as possible. With the pending retirement of Kirk Quillan, Bayview's current board member, our interests will be at the mercy of first those that don't live here, and secondly, in favor of dumping the first decent fire chief we have had in a very long time.

Whether or not you agree with me on any of these issues, they needed to be brought out into the light of day so that people can make informed decisions. I have copies of the district board meeting minutes through 2008-2009 from which I will attempt to separate fact from fiction. As far as Guinn goes, I tracked each and every vote and he never voted against any payments to anyone or for any equipment for any reason. That is a fact.

For those that wish to follow Timberlake Fire Prevention district, go to their web site of that name and check these things out yourselves. Votes on each issue and by whom are recorded history, not rumor and not innuendo.

The following is an email sent to Jack Krill, Timberlake fire Chief, following the February 17th Timberlake Fire Protection District Commissioners meeting in Bayview. This was supplied by it's author, George Grandy.

Jack,

I want to express my support for your actions about the equipment repair and maintenance. Safety is paramount and dictates every decision you make. Your plan of action is the correct one -- (1) evaluate where we stand today, (2) determine the costs, and (3) make a plan to get the equipment either up to code and back in service or scrap it, if necessary. The past is interesting, but it doesn't correct the problems or map a way forward. Complacency by the Commissioner's over the past few years is how we got to this point -- more inaction is not the path we want for the future,

I attended last nights Commissioner's meeting and was taken back by the number of people who have a personal vendetta, were giving a CYA speech or are willing to scrap their fire protection in favor of lower taxes. None of this is productive in finding our way forward. You can forget all the crazy ideas to get "cheap" maintenance and repairs. Always follow the code and use certified mechanics/shops. We should expect the best and should be willing to pay for it.

Personally, I would rather see my tax dollars go to the fire district than to an insurance company. You can count on my support for a levy increase, if necessary, and/or any other action you determine is necessary to make TFPD the safest and best it can be. I want to be able to count on you, your staff, the volunteers and the equipment to be there when I or one of my neighbors needs help.

Thank you and keep up the good work.

George A. Grandy

Loony Tunes

I guess something like this had to be expected. It turns out that with the help of some outside agitators, a battle is looming within the Timberlake Fire District hierarchy. The board members in the district represent partitioned sub-districts from which they are required to be residents of, but voted on by the entire district. With the present board as constituted, the majority favors the retention of chief Krill. Rather than let the publicly scheduled votes determine representation, a small group is circulating a petition to replace one of the commissioners in favor of retaining Chief Krill. The board consists of five commissioners.

One such seat, held by Bayview resident, Kirk Quillan is up for election. He is sounding very much like he will not run for re-election. Jon Guinn, former Lt. Colonel in the USAF Office of Special Investigations, having been elected two years ago, is facing recall by factions that allegedly are attempting to obtain a majority for the purpose of firing the fire chief. Guinn's term has two more years to run.

Allegedly, the regional Gadfly, Larry Spencer is behind this action which tends to work both sides of the issue. On the one hand, Spencer was violently opposed to any whisper of a fire district levy for the purpose of modernizing equipment. Now, it would appear that he is changing Guinn with failure to vote for allocating necessary funds for these purposes. In checking the records, we find the minutes of these meetings do not support that position.

It is starting to look like with the addition of the two new commissioners, and the continued behind the scenes influence of former board Charmian Sam Scheu, that the chemistry is up in the air. One can only wonder how a thankless job such as fire commissioner is ever filled. The total compensation for the commissioners is $75.00 per attended meeting, which isn't much, considering the hassle that comes with it.

We understand that Spencer will allege that Guinn has voted against the interests of the district by his alleged negative votes on funding. We will in the future attempt to document the truths of the matter. In the mean time, we strongly urge all of you to refuse your signature on this perfidious document. I found it rather interesting since the charge is that Guinn is being charged with the sole resonsibility for Board mismanagement. Considering that at least one of the petition signers were along with another, formerly on the board much longer than Guinn and perhaps could then along with another be in the same position. One old saying that comes to mind is, those that live in glass houses should not throw stones.

From The Spokesman-Review

Today's hot news is from Twin Falls, Idaho. In a burst of enthusiasm for strict law enforcement, a swat team from the local police department descended upon the local residential senior center. No, this wasn't for the usual reasons. No complaints about shoddy care, or senior abuse. This was much more serious.

It turns out that hidden in the dark recesses of this den of iniquity, was a poker parlor. Octogenarians faced with boredom were heard to say things like, "deal 'em and weep. I'm cleaning you out this hand." Another yells,"Ya and your mother wore hip boots."

This all came to a crashing end when the defenders of freedom burst into the game room yelling," Alright, everyone against the wall, now! Hands in sight, don't touch that filth in the middle of the table.What? Yes you can take your wheelchair with you." "No med breaks. This is serious business." "You are charged with aiding and abetting (Yuk) a gambling operation in which money changes hands." Senior citizen: "You mean you're here to collect taxes?" "Nope, we're taking you down.You will all do hard time for this!" senior: "Hard time? Does that mean we have to babysit our grandchildren again?" "Nope, it's the rock pile for you,Grandpa!" "But that isn't gambling, we just didn't have any poker chips and since we all have a little cash stashed in our rooms, we were using it as poker chips. You know, ones, fives and tens?

All of this was taking place while lawmakers down the road a piece were debating a change in the law that does not require enforcement of minor league gambling operations. If that doesn't move the law change along nothing will.We were unable to get a legal opinion, since all the lawyers in Twin Falls were falling all over themselves offering pro bono help for the aged mob members.

In other news, it appears that a bloodless coup has taken place in the comics. Mort Walker's Beetle Bailey was captured and replaced by Pearls Before Swine creator, Stephan Pastis, with Pearls appearing in both strips. War may break out at any moment, though it appears that Pastis has more mean characters that the army. More as these stories develop.

Signs Of The Times

Dan Mulhvihill (sp) has always marched to a different drummer. Not wedded to regulations or authority. Dan, while willing to give his friends the shirt off of his back, doesn't settle for losing. With the economy in the tank and no sign of relief, Dan, who works as a cement finisher, like the rest of the construction industry, is hurting for work.

After being shown the door at several marinas for inability to pay fees, he finally sailed the boat over to Eagle Landing at Farragut State Park. Evicted from there, he set out to examine the regulations on anchoring out from shore. He found that if the boat carries current registration, is not blocking a channel or waterway, and has an operable anchor light it is legal as long as it's not just stored on the water, but has periodic habitation. We learned this from Matt Street, Sgt, Kootenai County Water Patrol.

This 26 foot blue sailboat sits calmly out from shore at the head of Scenic Bay, tethered to a buoy which is anchored to the bottom. Dan finally figured out how to win even when the system didn't work for him. If you should happen to run across Dan at one of the diminishing watering holes here in Bayview, you can be sure he is staying at his very own marine hotel, rent free.

Here's an updated close up of the boat backlighted by the setting sun. 2/27/10

Blogfest 2010

Today started off in a sad note. I attended a celebration of life gathering in honor of Tom McGurk, a very special friend. I wrote about Tom and his untimely death last week, so I won't dwell on it, except to say, "We miss you buddy."

I had a year long obligation to attend the annual bloggers convention, known as "Blogfest." In fact I think it was me that gave it that name. The first two were held here in Bayview at the Captain's Wheel, now closed.

This one was held at the Fort Ground Tavern in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Each year the gathering grows larger. Some are newcomers, some have dropped out or can't show themselves publicly, (they say) then there are those that have been in the game from the start. Not all of us are still in touch, since some ultra-conservatives dropped out, rather than to do battle with the encroaching liberal radical movement. I personally regret that, since balance requires multiple points of view. Still, many of use greeted each other, some as friends, others as welcome newcomers.

The Fort Ground was as always a wonderful host, with discounted pricing, (Someone told them DFO was a cheapskate) and the party was perhaps in full swing. The hit of the party, though, was when a Coeur d'Alene police Sgt. (female) delivered a tray full of cupcakes for the occasion.

Some political subjects were discussed. Councilman Mike found out one of the participants who works for the county, is in charge of assigning addresses to vacant lots. At that news, Mike's eyes lit up with the realization that no longer would he be forced to register tombstones. Now all he has to do is corrupt one lady. That could be a daunting chore, though.

None of the county commissioners attended, perhaps a forerunner of the despairing outlook for the coming election cycle. It would seem that every year brings forth a more successful blogfest than the year preceding. May that always be the case. Sometimes when people get to swinging punches on line they fail to realize that the person they are swinging at is also a real person. These get togethers tend to humanize the process.

Rumors Galore

It's this time of year when total boredom sets in that rumors start to fly. One such rumor, was that someone without a life of their own decided that because Jim Brown moved out of the RV Park at Lakeland, that he was fired. Not true at all. I just talked to Liz Justus who is, with, husband Larry, basking in 80 degree weather in Welton, Arizona. It turns out that even before Jim heard about his alleged firing, Liz & Larry heard about it in Arizona. This just proves that in this electronic age, rumors need not be spread locally when you can instead, spread them everywhere. Somewhere in Singapore, someone is shaking their head with sadness, hoping that Jim catches on with another employer.

Folks it Ain't true. Not only is Jim coming back next season, (park opens May 1), but he was given a generous raise. Larry & Liz Justus think of Jim Brown as much as their own kids. End of story. With reduced RV parking here in Bayview, it would behoove those without advanced arrangements to reserve a spot early. Justus's swill be back around the 28th of April.

There are other rumors abounding also. Most of these are not immediately proved or disproved, but Bob Holland is back in the news. One of the things that are more certain than death and taxes, is when the economy goes into the toilet, so do speculators, such as Bob. Most in town will not shed a tear if this stuff is true. The fallout, though, can be unpredictable and destructive to a small community.

First, a collection agency in Spokane has filed suit against Waterford Park, LLC for In excess of $28,000. For what is at this time unknown.

Also, and this is strictly rumor, the parking area at Harborview Marina is being foreclosed upon by the bank financing the project. According to the same unreliable sources, these parking spots, sold to float home and boat slip owners, was to have also included an eight unit condo has been in default. How this affects those that have purchased their slips that include a parking space, remains to be seen.It seems that in many cases, Waterford Park, LLC has made many sales without conveying title to said ;properties. We will try our best to ascertain the truth of the matter and get back to you.

Now that I have dispensed with all the rumors I have heard recently, we will return to the main menu, aka: facts. This next year could prove very interesting.

Fire Safety

While Timberlake Fire District hunts for temporary help regarding the massive sidelining of equipment, one must remember that all neighboring fire departments have mutual aid agreements. If more than one engine is needed, Timberlake can draw from spirit Lake, Rathdrum, Sagle and Northern Lakes. Hopefully there won't be any serious fires in the next two weeks, though. Keep in mind that mechanics are working full time to get more equipment on line.

This would, however, be an excellent time to be aware of fire safety. Extension cords, space heaters, especially cause many fires and they can be prevented easily.If you must use an extension cord, make sure it is plugged in all the way without any conductive prongs showing. Do not cover them with carpet or any other material that is flammable. If it is absolutely necessary to use a spaceheater, make sure it is clear of any flammable material. Also never use a heater that doesn't have a tip over safety switch. If using portable propane heaters, be sure to have a carbon monoxide detector that is operable.

We'll get through this scary period, but in order to effect the repairs needed, the entire current budget has been used up. That the voters will be asked to approve a permanent bond issue is obvious. Taxes are not well thought of in North Idaho, but if the services are wanted and needed, sometimes we have to pay the piper.I have talked to chief Krill extensively and can assure you that he cares deeply about protecting his firefighters, but also the people that he is entrusted to protect.

We will report back as more equipment comes on line in the coming week. EMS is not affected by this equipment crisis. Both units are owned and maintained by Kootenai county and are in full serivce.

Chief Krill has generously agreed to do a regular fire safety column in these spaces soon. Look for his feature in the next few days.

All Timberlake Fire Apparatus Out of Service

On Wednesday the 17th, Gordon Schoonmaker, Fleet Operations Supervisor and Certified Emergency Vehicle Technician with the Spokane Valley Fire Department and one of his assistants will begin the evaluation of all fire department vehicles against the out of service criteria of the Spokane Valley Fire Department Safety and Operations Manual which follows NFPA and other regulatory requirements. This may take about 2 weeks to evaluate all of the trucks considering at least 3-5 hours per truck. Their shop rate is $85/hour so we are looking at a cost of at least $8,000 which does not include repairs or parts. Northern Lakes uses this shop for all of their apparatus maintenance and are very pleased with their service and attention to detail.

After Jeff Laird and I spoke with Gordon today and reviewed the attached Out of Service Apparatus and Equipment Criteria, there are items that we could apply to nearly every piece of fire apparatus we have that would technically place them out of service. We are not experienced certified Emergency Vehicle Technicians to know for sure, but we are mechanically inclined enough to know that we feel the items appear to meet the criteria. Not knowing if these trucks are safe to operate keeps many of us up at night. Some members and their families are concerned with the safety of the apparatus and whether they want to drive or ride in them.

The two in-service ambulances (EMS 61 and EMS 63) are owned and properly maintained by Kootenai County on a regular service and preventive maintenance schedule. Currently, there are no issues with those ambulances that would place them out of service according to the criteria. The fire boat is not in great shape and has its deficiencies, but Kevin Elmore has done an excellent job in keeping it maintained and safe for use at this time, Kevin maintains and repairs most of the boats in Bayview and I personally trust his work to be to standard. The fire boat remains in service under the winter use rules (only used for emergencies since we have to winterize it after each use).

If we take the conservative safety approach to do what’s best for our own responders and not risk their lives if we can help it, then we take the vehicles out of service until we know. However, then we are left with no fire apparatus. If we don’t take them out of service and something happens, then what?

Do we take every vehicle out of service immediately and until Gordon evaluates them to tell us for sure? That’s the question that several of the officers have been discussing.

The final resolution: all fire apparatus are out of service except for V2 (1986 International Engine), which only has one apparent out of service issue that we know of – the headlight high beam foot switch (when you turn the high beams on, everything goes dark, which startled me the other night test driving it on a dark road). It’s particularly concerning because this truck is a manual transmission and you are driving with two feet anyway. We just got a new switch installed this morning and that specific problem is solved.

We have already spoken with several fire departments and have calls into others to see if they have a reserve engine that has passed an NFPA inspection in the past year that we could barrow for 2 to 4 weeks. We are also speaking with fire apparatus dealers and manufacturers about short term options. If we get a loaner engine, we will take V2 out of service until Gordon evaluates it.

Be safe, drive slow, look out for each other.

Thanks, Jack


Jack Krill, Fire Chief
Timberlake Fire Protection District
5985 E. Highway 54, PO Box 810, Athol, ID 83801
208-683-3333, Fax 208-683-6002, Cell 208-818-1101
jkrill@timberlakefire.com, www.timberlakefire.com



***Addendum

Just to clarify so the subject line and content of the original email is not misinterpreted.

V2 is in service as Engine 621
Fire Boat 695 is in service
EMS 61 and EMS 63 are in service

Everything else is out of service. (17 units out) I will be switching to my personal vehicle as well.

Thanks, Jack Krill

Mountain Lion Alert- From Bayview-Idaho.com

According to Bayview Bob, a Cougar was spoted along the park fence behind First Street, February 8. Watch your pets and small kids. To a Cougar, they are pot luck.

As predator recovery plays out, we will see more Cougar and probably wolves, too. Hiking alone is not recommended. Keep some sort of noise maker with you, to warn animals that you are near. Most of them will avoid you if they know humans are present, unless they are surprised. The great outdoors we have enjoyed for years is not as safe as it used to be.

According to reports, the Cougar was spotted near noon which is unusual and may indicate a real hungry animal, or posibly injured. They generally hunt at night. According to park officials, there are usually two to three cougars that range around the south end of the lake, including Buttonhook Bay and the park. He also said there were around 14 black bears in the park, but they are rarely seen, as they are more afraid of you, than you, them.

A Sad Note

Funeral arrangements have been completed for Tom McGurk. Much of the interment will occur on the West Coast, with viewing Thursday, February 11 at Greenwood Funeral Home east of Renton, from Noon to 7:00 pm. Burial will be Friday, February 12 at 10:30 pm Tahoma Veterans Cemetery.Tahoma is located on 240th just off of highway 18, east of Kent, Washington.

A celebration of life will be held at the Athol American Legion, Post 149 Saturday, February 20. The time, 1:00 pm. There will be a pot luck. Tom served in the navy as a submariner, drove the Silverwood train and hauled asphalt for Coeur d'Alene Paving. I doubt he ever had an enemy.

On a happier note, yesterday, February 7 marked the 100th birthday for Athol resident, Marion Bates. Born February 7, 1910 in Seattle, Washington, Marion is still hanging in there, crediting a healthy diet and the occasional Irish Whiskey for her longevity.

Fire Commissioner Speaks

To all Citizens of the Timberlake Fire Protection District,

Hello, My Name is David “Rudy” Rudebaugh one of you’re recently elected Fire Commissioners for the Timberlake Fire Protection District.

I thank the people who voted for me as one of your 5 elected Commissioners and I will continue to work hard on your behalf along with my fellow Commissioners in providing you the highest possible level of service and to make sure all our Emergency Responders can fulfill there duties in a safe manner and return home to their families and loved ones, while insuring your tax dollars are spent wisely and correctly.

I do not speak for the other commissioners, but I can say I (We) need your support more than ever during the next few months in helping us determine what the citizens want for a level of service and what you will be willing to pay for that service. This can only be done with your involvement in becoming educated about the current status of the District and asking questions. .

The recent letter from Chief Krill (Near-Miss) in addition to the information which has been identified in Needs Analysis 2008 is a reflection of the District's current state. Information is available on the district web site, www.timberlakefire.com.

I can tell you something needs to be done, but to what level and at what expense is not for me to say, as I continue to educate myself on the current status of our District, the myriad of laws we fall under in addition to hopefully visiting with many of you in hearing your feedback and ideas on options for us to consider. The Board of Commissioners has not decided and will not decide until the April 21st 2010 meeting on what to do concerning any levy or the amount proposed, the decision is to be based upon the results of a Informative Newsletter and Survey being mailed out in the next few weeks to all residents of the District, in addition to the valuable input received from you at the Special Informational Meetings and one on one conversations we may have.

With that said I ask each and every citizen in our district to attend the Commissioner Meetings for the next several months and the Special Informational Meetings which are being scheduled as well. This will help us Commissioners do the best possible job we were elected to do.

Please visit www.timberlakefire.com for the exact dates, locations and times of the meetings and the most current information concerning the District.

Feel free to e-mail either Chief Krill or any of the Commissioners with your questions or concerns.

Disclaimer: The above is from David “Rudy” Rudebaugh to you the Citizens of our District. The above views and\or request may or may not be the same as the other elected commissioners nor any specific individual within the district.. As Commissioners we cannot have discussions among ourselves concerning these issues unless we are in an Open Meeting, IAW Idaho Open Meeting Laws Idaho Code 67-2340 through 67-2347. Come to the meetings and help us in doing what you elected us to do.

Thank you in advance for your support.

Sincerely,

David “Rudy” Rudebaugh
Commissioner, Timberlake Fire District, Zone 4

A Man That Will Be Missed

Adding to the sadness regarding the recent passing of Pat Dow, we lost another friend. Tuesday afternoon, I stopped at JD's for a beer and to contact with friends. Tom McGurk, a very good personal friend was at the bar for his usual two drinks then on home. Tom had a shop and a hideaway where he listened to shortwave from around the world, when he wasn't working on one of his projects. Tom wasn't just a mechanic, he was a tinkerer. He loved figuring out things from scratch, many times coming up with solutions the experts never thought of. He loved horses and his dogs.

I remember last time I took care of his horses while he and Sandy took a short vacation. I saw a track that was about five inches across that I thought might be a stalking cougar. I covered it up with a bucket. When Tom got back, it turned out it was the track of his very large dog. A dog I was happy not to meet when they were gone.

Gone now, while his wife was in Canada with Trailways transporting people from Vancouver to the mountains and the Olympic venues, Tom was as usual, out in the shop tinkering, then settled back with his shortwave radio and a cold beer. When Sandy couldn't reach him on his cell phone, she called a neighbor, who went down to check on him. He found Tom slumped over his work table, oblivious to the sounds that were still coming out of his radio. Just like those radio waves, Tom is now out there amongst them, saying, "Oh boy, would you look at that."

As well as his seasonal job driving a set of doubles for Coeur d'Alene Paving, he loved his part time job as a steam engine operator. For several years now, he would spend week-ends driving old number seven around the 3.5 mile route that circled Silverwood. He didn't ride much, but he also loved horses. When they lost Ono, the 32 year old palomino a couple of years ago, it coincided with the economy going south with horse owners.

He and Sandy made a home for four unwanted or at least unaffordable horses, all prime stock and all free,except for the feed which was hurting them. Fortunately, in the times that try men's(and women's) souls, people step up. A neighbor has agreed to take charge of the horses until a home can be found for them.

These are the practical problems that were quickly overcome. Somehow I know that Tom is reading this, as I type it with tears in my eyes. I loved you, man. I just hope that Sandy can survive this after, I think about twenty two years of hilarity, as they matched wits with each other, and shot a few pool games.Rest knowing that you left this world a better place for your presence.

The Public and Firefighters At Risk

This is an exact copy of an e-mail I received from a very upset Chief Krill.

Timberlake’s Apparatus Near Miss - Wednesday, February 3, 2010

We can no longer compromise the safety of our responders with inadequate maintenance.

Since I started 19 months ago, emergency responder safety has been my number one concern. We have modified our practices, improved training, and have taken a very conservative approach to emergency operations. A large part of the safety concerns were, and still are, the maintenance of our emergency equipment. I don’t trust our equipment enough to put our folks in hazardous conditions – that’s one reason why we only fight fires from the exterior right now.

Wednesday, we had a transmission specialist (Dave) working on Engine 621 and found some disturbing maintenance issues. We couldn't’t tell how old the batteries were because the dates were not punched out. Commissioner Rudebaugh deciphered the code to determine they were manufactured in July 2003. The batteries were producing less than 12 volts, which directly affects the performance of the transmission. Batteries are supposed to be load tested at least annually and must be taken out of service if they fall below 12.6 volts, we didn’t have a load tester so Tim Fulp borrowed one from Victory Auto Parts and ordered one for us. Batteries on fire apparatus should be replaced at least every 3 years. The voltage drop between the batteries and the transmission ECU was about 1 volt due to corrosion inside the power cables. Commissioner Rudebaugh expedited the delivery of 5 new batteries @ $122 each, cheaper than what we could purchase anywhere else, thanks Rudy.

Dave also noticed a box mounted under the battery tray that was rusting away. Turns out this is the box that contains the master power relay for the entire truck’s electrical system, as we tried to open the box, it was so dilapidated that it fell apart. The components and relays appear to be fine, but the box needs to be replaced.

If that wasn’t enough, we noticed there were two alternators, because as David put it “this truck is a power hog.” Two alternators are not uncommon on older fire trucks, but the 2nd one looked like it was installed by some backyard mechanic with scrap metal and sloppy welds. It will be sent out to ensure the creative mounting will not fall apart.

Hopefully the transmission problem will be solved with the new batteries. If we still experience transmission problems, Trans Pro will loan us a new electronic shifter. If that is the problem, the cost to replace it is $2,000, which is on top of the $700 for their labor Wednesday and $610 for batteries.

Here’s the scary part… After we let it run for 20 minutes on the front pad as Dave instructed, I took it for a test drive with Josh. As we headed west on 54, I noticed something odd with the accelerator pedal – it was stuck and would not release. I tapped it to try to break it loose and it stuck in full throttle position. Luckily we had the brakes fixed a few weeks ago (remember the mechanic said there was so much corrosion on the brakes that we were lucky the truck even stopped). I was able to keep the speed down as I shouted a few choice words pulling into the lumber yard parking lot. Once the transmission down shifted into 1st gear, the brakes would not hold back the truck (still stuck in full throttle) so I quickly switched it into neutral and shut it down before it red-lined. Imagine if we pulled in the driveway of a working house fire with the stuck pedal and ran right into the house. Turning West out of the station, the first stop is usually for a passing train, what if I couldn’t stop? Who would be personally sued?

After we caught our breath and trouble-shooted the problem, we discovered that we could pull up the accelerator pedal by hand to manually release it. I slowly nursed it to Station 3 to take it out of service and move Engine 623 up to Station 1. Tim Fulp met us at Station 3 and found that a sheath on the throttle cable broke and the entire assembly needed to be replaced. Jeff Laird and Tim removed the cable and will try to get it replaced soon. It’s also worth mentioning that the driver’s seat belt needs to be replaced because it took me 5 minutes to get the catch to release so I could get enough belt unwrapped to buckle in. I guess it has been that way for some time; it’s not going to be like that anymore.

It’s important to note that these issues are not related to the work on the transmission Wednesday. I learned this morning that some of our responders have noticed accelerator pedal issues in the past with this truck; the pedal would return slowly. We have become so used to dealing with substandard equipment, that many have come to accept these little quirks with all of our equipment. The throttle cable sheath on Engine 621 had apparently been cracked for some time; it just finally gave way when I happen to be driving it. Please do not accept any little abnormal issues with our equipment; if it doesn’t work like it should then report it immediately to the on duty officer and submit a work order.

I drove Engine 623 to Station 1 with the driver seat in the lowest position because the valve to adjust the seat height has been broken for some time. Some of the dash lights are out, the transmission control panel backlights are out, and the dome light doesn’t work when you open the door. So you have to manually turn on the dome light to see the button to switch from neutral, drive, or reverse. As Jeff Piephoff and I drove to Station 1, you could hear the lose compartment doors rattling behind us because most of the door’s insulation needs to be replaced.

These safety and state of the district issues are not new and are not just my opinion. Since 2005, there have been 8 different fire chiefs (4 associated with Timberlake and 4 from other districts) who all expressed the same themed safety concerns with the state of our equipment. In looking through the meeting minutes, you can also see numerous fire district members also upset about maintenance. After my experience Wednesday, I have never been more convinced that we have a fleet of junk fire trucks that we have never maintained properly. It is chilling to think what we will find next and is almost enough to say “take everything out of service until we know, without a doubt, it is safe to operate;” but that’s not a realistic scenario.

Our fleet has always been neglected, the more we learn about the poor conditions of our assets (vehicles, equipment, and facilities) the more shocking stories we have to tell. Each member of this district is empowered, without hesitation, to take a vehicle or piece of equipment out of service if there is any safety or operational issues with it. Even if you are en route to a working fire - stop and call yourself out of service, don’t risk anything.

We have come a long way with maintenance issues - as far as our personnel, time, and funding limitations would take us, but it is not enough, we keep finding more problems. We have taken the 2 white engines out of service because of maintenance issues, returned the 1966 tender to the department of lands because it was too expensive to repair, and continue to discover more deficiencies in our assets. The frame on Tender 631 was cracked, it went unnoticed for so long and got so bad that it was in imminent failure of the vehicle falling in half. The pending work order list is so long, it’s overwhelming.

As most of you know, Jeff Laird has been doing an outstanding job coordinating our vehicle maintenance issues for the past 7 months. We are sending each vehicle one-by-one to certified mechanics at licensed service centers for evaluation. What they find is always shocking and commonly ask “why haven’t you been maintaining these trucks?” The cost to catch up on all of this neglected vehicle maintenance is trending towards bankrupting this fire district.

If school buses were not maintained properly, would you place your children on them? If you knew an airline had maintenance and safety issues, would you book a flight with them? Well, why should we accept the unsafe conditions of the fire district assets? How do we know that the fire trucks will even make it to the fire?

There are numerous remarks about maintenance issues in past documents and commissioner meeting minutes, complaints from staff on the poor condition of vehicles, and an outcry to properly maintain them. One of the most revealing conversations took place on September 7, 2005. “Brief discussion took place regarding Preventive Maintenance. Commissioner Mertens expressed his opinion that LOF’s on smaller equipment could be done in house, however larger equipment should be sent out. President Scheu indicated his desire to have all preventive maintenance done in house, on a prioritized rotation list.” As a result, nearly all maintenance was done in house by personnel who were not certified mechanics – your safety was compromised. The short sided decisions to go cheap, ignore standards, and disregard safety in the past have caught up to us. I have never and will never accept substandard maintenance. If we can’t do something safely, we won’t do it. If we need to fix something, we are going to do it right - to standard, with quality in mind, and consider the long term impacts.

The 2010 application period for the Assistance to Firefighter Grant is expected to open in April. Jake Capaul and I will be drafting a request for a new engine (rescue/pumper) for Station 1. Although vehicle grants seem to be the most difficult to get awarded, we have no choice but to try. We have no funds to replace our existing aging fleet.

In 2007, we asked two different fire districts to consolidate with us, they both declined because of several issues, primarily because our assets are in such poor condition and the district in general would be too much work getting back up to minimum standards.

In 2005, our former insurance carrier proposed a huge rate increase because of the tremendous risk to insure the district (explained in person by the agent to me and Penney in 2008). The district switched carriers and went out to bid the following year. They asked the former insurance carrier to bid; they declined “because of the district’s losses.” Last year, our current insurance carrier conducted a loss control survey, they supported my findings in the 2008 Needs Analysis and put us on notice to shape up and fix some serious safety concerns. Other chiefs with knowledge of Timberlake and have read the 2008 Needs Analysis also agree with its findings.

I’ve preached the need for additional funding and the potential permanent levy override to fix our safety problems and get us back on track since the 2008 Needs Analysis. Soon, a newsletter on the State of the District will be sent to every mailbox in the fire district and new information will be posted on the web site. In March, we will be hosting town hall meetings to educate the community about our shocking state and express the need for additional funding. We are at risk of losing our fire district insurance rating and closing more stations which will result in increased homeowner insurance premiums to our residents and property owners. In April, the commissioners may decide if the residents will to vote on a permanent levy override and if so, how much that will be. If we proceed, the election will be May 25.

As former Commissioner Scheu reminded those in attendance at the April 7, 2007 commissioners meeting “once they become part of the decision process, then you are allowing yourself to be sued, because once you are informed of a situation you are held accountable.”

We cannot allow a tragedy to occur, we know we are at risk, these safety issues demand immediate attention.

Be safe, drive slow, and watch out for each other. Please report all maintenance problems, safety issues, and near misses to workrequests@timberlakefire.com. Thanks for all of your continued support and dedication to the district. More information to follow including a message about “Quick Fixes and Fast Results” versus “Foundation Building and Long Term Planning” as it relates to Timberlake.

Jack

Spin Control

In a recent article published in the Bonner county Bee, news editor, Keith Kinnard interviewed Lt. Cary Kelly, marine patrol supervisor. Whether that means that Kelly is a cop, or that he is a fireman is up for grabs. I say that, because this article seems not to be able to differenciate between the two.

Kelly justifies buying a 30 foot parrol boat, in addition to the one stationed in Sandpoint and the other in Hope. Kelly went on to say, "It can take as long as two hours for a patrol vessel to reach the southern end when the weather is foul." He goes on to say, "Various political sand diplomatic efforts over the years to resolve the issue have not panned out, whitch prompted Bonner County to seek the watrways Improvement Fund grant from the state."

Here's where the story becomes interesting> "We've had several close rescues and we're getting more traffic down in the south part of the lake," said Kelly. This with no quotes: Last season, the marine patrol rescued two kayakers caught in a storm near Maiden Rock and two teenage personal watercraft riders who ran out of gas in bad weather and with darkness falling." This statement is blatantly false. I, myself was aware at the time of the rescue attempt at Maiden Rock. The problem is that it was Timberlake fire District's fire/rescue boat that made that rescue, not Bonner County.

In the last year, Timberlake fire has responded to many Bonner County rescues. At least three in the Lakeview and north or Lakeview areas, plus water and land rescues up to and including Maiden Rock, which is clearly in Bonner county and then some.Timberlake Fire District Chief Jack Krill told us that over 10 rescues, involving both land and waterways were performed by his department, all in Bonner County.

Having another boat on the lake near Maiden Rock, stationed at Garfield Bay would be great. Just don't misrepresent the alleged lack of cooperation from Kootenai County Sheriff or Timberlake, to get what you want. After speaking with Sgt. Matt Street, commander of the Kootenai County Sheriff Marine Patrol, we believe that there is great cooperation between Bonner and Kootenai County, which leads us to believe that the reporting was sloppy.

Street indicated that they would go anywhere, anytime, to assist in a rescue. Kootenai County, with several lakes to cover, do not man their Scenic Bay boat on a regular basis, but coverage by the Timberlake Fire/rescue boat makes up the difference. Fire districts have mutual aid agreements, where in the case of law enforcement, cross deputization is used. Sgt. Street informed us that that has been done in the past with the former Bonner Sheriff and is in the process of being renewed under the new sheriff.

Generational Dyfunctions

Over the week-end and prior to that on numerous occasions, I have heard the pejorative, "your generation," as a criticism in general of our alleged intolerance, or hatred for those different than ourselves, etc.

I would like to address some of these things, so as to get a proper perspective. First, this week-end's debate featured many opinions regarding CBS's refusal to accept an ad that promoted gay lifestyles. My response was that television networks are not in the business of social engineering, but entertainment for profit. That means they are not obligated to piss off the majority to cater to a minority.

During this discussion I was branded as an old has been that isn't in touch with today's reality.A suggestion was even made that the world would be much better off without my generation. Perhaps they are right. But on the other hand, the present twenty-somethings did not invent the world, it's morals or it's history. Our country, and for that matter, others as well, build society by tweaking the present but adhering to tradition as well.In the case of the gay discussion, I pointed out that gays have only been out of the closet for about twenty years. That was jumped on as a suggestion that they go back to that place. It would seem that in being defensive, stuff that has never been said, is added to the comments out of a soured memory.

My comments were meant to point out that providing we only go back three or four thousand years, during the Jewish-Christian era, homosexuality was considered less than civilized. Now, suddenly, it's MY generation that is at fault for those social mores that exist. Tradition goes back a long way and to some extent is good. It keeps change at a manageable level while allowing for adjustments from time to time.My advise to those with an alternate life style, is to keep your shirt on. You've made tremendous progress toward legitimizing your sexual orientation, but don't expect that you are so important to the world that a revolution is needed to make these changes right this minute. Overcoming more than 3000 years is not accomplished in a month or three.

Without my generation, first of all, none of you revolutionaries would be born. White people marched in Selma, Alabama in opposition to racial inequality. They were of my generation. Industry and innovation in the last 50 years has been amazing. My generation. The Japanese and Germans, Italians and such were defeated by my father's generation. We managed to feed the world without PETA. My generation. Organized labor came into it's own. My father's generation.

The bottom line, and I could give examples 'till Hell freezes over, is that until you twenty and thirty year olds actually produce or accomplish something in your years on this earth, just be glad that my generation built the bridge to yours. Learn something from history. Yes, history wasn't part of your generation either, was it. Learn better manners. You don't win arguments by running out of ideas, then insulting the other person. In essence, grow up prior to castigating those that came before you. If you're lucky, you to may grow old and become a curmudgeon like me. Earn the right, first.

Just a few reminders of what my generation has accomplished:

When I was born in 1938, most aircraft were bi-planes. They actually had propellers to power them. Then the Jet Plane, also a product of my generation.

Oh, and there were the rockets to the moon, mars expeditions, etc. Also my generation.

When I was born,U.S. military aircraft were held to under 100 mph. Now they fly at 3 times the speed of sound. When I was a student in grade school, and even high school, we had nuclear attack drills in which we had to hide under our desks, like that would have helped. Our generation won the cold war between the Soviet Union and the western world.
When your parents were struggling to get by, they somehow managed to help you get a college education so that you could then belittle their generation. Our generation allowed, because of freedom of speech, Hippies that in many cases were your parents, to shun our own country in favor of "let it all hang out,drop out, get high, and somwhere in that mix, that generation lost track of where and whence they came from.

It just might be of value to those of you that are really thinkers, to go back without your newborn prejudices and look at our evolution as a people, as a country, and as a civilization, without the ever present hindsight, and examine how things happened, when they happened and why they happened, and do so in the context of that generation.

For the rest of you that are too lazy, I call you pissants that make much noise but produce no value in your lives, nor contribute to those that will come later. We can only hope that as I, you will grow, mature and send the next generation into a place where they will ridicule you too.

A Fine Man Is Gone

Pat Dow, community activist, Water & Sewer Board member, Son's of the American Legion and an all around fine guy passed away a few days ago. He was an avid fisherman, most always heard during fishing derbies as the voice of the south end of Lake Pend Oreille. I last talked to him at the retirement party for Deedie Beard in Coeur d'Alene recently. I ask about his fight with prostate cancer, and he replied, "it has spread to the bones." I shook my head and said, That isn't good. He came back with, "No it isn't." He'll be missed. A quiet man, he was a giant of a person, though small in stature.A memorial service will be held at the Athol american Legion, Saturday, February 6 at 11:00 am.

It is starting to appear that regardless of how the lawsuit regarding the Captain's Wheel sorts out, it will not be able to open this spring. I am not at liberty to get into details, except that debt plays into it. Possible corporate bankruptcy is also an option at this point, though everything is still up in the air. I miss the watering hole I called home for the last 15 years and 12 owners.More on this as it unfolds.

The Captain's Wheel

I am still hesitant to explain all of the ramifications of the jury trial just concluded. While the jury overwhelmingly penalized Michael McFarland for paying less for his 50% interest than it was represented to be worth, the contest isn't over yet.

No judgement has been entered, and actually, may not be. Two issues that face the judge now, are whether the jury used evidence offered during the trial, or sympathy for the widow of Jerry Berry.If the judge believes the preponderance of evidence that the big bad lawyer didn't screw anyone out of anything, he can set aside the jury's verdict. He can also declare a mistrial.

Somehow, the jury was convinced that the value of the 'Wheel was over one million dollars. Maybe that was true in 2006 when the market bubble hadn't broke yet, but realistically, getting $600,000 for the place now would be a stretch. McFarland paid $100,000 for 50% of the equity in the business in 2003. Berry, just three years earlier, paid $50,000 for the same amount of stock.

There has been so much false information and erroneous rumor, I felt I had to straighten out at least some of the misinformation. As the old saying goes, "It ain't over 'till the fat lady sings." Once a final judgement is reached, and any appeals are finished, the problem of this debt ridden business being able to open regardless of which party wins, looms over the place. I personally don't think it will survive and the bones that are being fought over will prove to be less than valuable. I wish both parties well, and I grieve over this battle that didn't ever have to be fought, were it not the overriding greed of one of the litigants.

Authors Visit Bayview

Bayview ushered in the 2010 centennial year with a town meeting Friday, January 15, called by the Independent Centennial Committee. This group of historians and community activists were able to put together a community calendar that was as spectacular as was the speed it sold out. Some of us still don't have a copy, but there is a move on to create another for next year.

Private donations have created a monument that is still in the process of being set up near the entrance of town. Many people wonder why, since Bayview Isn't incorporated it can have a centennial. Back in 1910, an enterprising investor, purchased a large tract of land smack in the middle of what was to become Bayview. The Prairie Development Company, and a spin-off Bayview Townsite Company plated 27 lots that became the core of the town that isn't.

The program that was introduced was different than most community meetings. Gone was the verbosity that tends to extend content without necessarily adding to the value. With the introduction of the donors and the program for this, the centennial year, the guests of honor were introduced. This gathering had not one, but two local authors, selling and signing books. The first, was Jane Fritz, author of many articles in periodicals, that finally accepted the challenge of writing a book. A student of history and involved in much interaction between modern North Idaho, and the various Indian tribes that inhabited Kootenai and Bonner Counties, especially. Her book, entitled Legendary Lake Pend Oreille has just recently been published by Keokee publishing of Sandpoint, Idaho. About forty or so guests lined up for autographed copies of the book.

Following her was Dennis Woolford, park ranger and historian at Farragut State Park. Dennis along with a pal in Boise,Gayle Alvarez, who runs the state archives managed to put together a complete history of Farragut Naval Station through the war years. They gathered items that had been donated to the park as well as records from the navy and state archives. Stories of hidden weapons buried by the departing navy turned out to be false. Apparently a rumor had circulated for many years that when the base swimming pools were filled and covered up at the end of the war, brand new rifles still covered in cosmoline were buried in these pools.


Finally last year, a ground piercing sonar was brought out from the east coast and used above all of the various pools. These pools, one to each training camp were not primarily intended for recreation, since swimming was a part of the basic training program. War years proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that swimming skills in the pacific navy were needed. One more war story disproved. No guns were found, just junk that was buries in the handy spots.

Mum's The Word

Normally when community event play out I'm right on them, so that those that are not here can keep up with community events. Today I can't.

First, there is the trial to determine ownership and control of the Captain's Wheel restaurant.It would be inappropriate to comment on an ongoing case that is playing out in court this week.

The other, is some exciting news about our Centennial and the celebrations to come. I have submitted a story about the kickoff town meeting held last Friday at the Community Center. Those of you that were there already know some of what is happening. Since I submitted a story to the Spokesman-Review, I don't want to scoop myself. I can say this, though. The paper has authorized me to do a lengthy four part story about the history of Bayview. One that will in part use portions of other stories I've written and a lot of help from our local historians.More on both issues later.

As most can see, the Bay Cafe, formerly known as Terry's and before that, Don's and even before that, Sue Nordstrom's Burger Bar, is now open for business for breakfast and lunches. We wish them great success in their new endeavor. It has been cleaned up, made safe, fire code wise and also health department wise. The hours are from 7am to 2pm Thursday through Monday, with take out available as well.

Bob Holland was turned down in his quest to create more parking places at his center of town parking lot. We aren't sure of the details, but the Chamber of commerce DAC has the details. Credibility was named as a primary cause.

More later on these and other ongoing stories.

Jerry's Last Birthday

I am looking for anyone that has pictures of Jerry Berry's last birthday party that was held in mid-July of 2006.The party was held outside at the Captain's Wheel. If you have any pictures, especially of Jerry, or Jerry dancing with Carly, please contact me at:bayviewherb@gmail.com as soon as possible. Better yet, just e-mail the pics to me at this same address.

Marijuana Is Going To Be Legalized

vents have overtaken tradition as the pressure unrelentingly surges toward full legalization of this minor intoxicant. For years, the federal government has classed Marijuana with other more serious drugs like opium derivatives, such as Heroin, and others such as Methamphetamine and cocaine, from c0coa leaves. (We aren't talking Hershey here)

Most of the arguments are that Marijuana is an entry drug. One that leads to more serious stuff. That my friends is like saying that if you are a jaywalker, most likely you will turn to serious crime later in life. Many states, if not most, are considering the abolishing of either criminal penalties, or outright legalizing the drug.

While some would consider this a side issue, it might make the courts sit up and remember that the states, under the constitution are sovereign entities with only the ceded powers accruing to the Federal Government. In the last thirty years or so, most in congress and the lower courts have forgotten this constitutional principle.

1913 brought about a new federal law prohibiting the sale or consumption of Liquor. That law, totally unenforceable, was repealed in 1933, as the people rebelled over the practice of over controlling the lives of others. Now we have the same attitude, with about the same results. Someone once said, "a law that isn't supported by the citizens is not enforceable."Bingo. Sound familiar?

Currently, in several states, new legislation is being considered either abolishing the prohibition or at least decriminalizing the use.Washington State has a law that allows medicinal use of marijuana, without a means of controlling the growing or dispensing of it. Several petitions are circulating to go several steps further in redirecting law enforcement toward real issues like the control of Meth labs and the importation of Cocaine and Heroin.

Today showed polls, both in the Seattle P.I. and Huckleberries online, Spokesman-review that asked the following: Should pot be legalized? Secondly, snould it be decriminalized, and third, should the laws be left the same.

Interestingly both polls were about the same in results. With the first two categories combined, both showed 85% in favor of either decriminalization or legalizing the drug. Interestingly enough, even hemp, which in the same basic family as Marijuana, is not toxic or usable to get high, is prohibited. This then, suggests that the opponents of pot are so hysterical about the subject, they won't even allow the manufacture of rope made out of hemp. This, even though most other drugs, especially opium, are commonly used for medical purposes. A drug that used illegally is extremely dangerous, but the medicinal use of pot is still forbidden. It is time for common sense to break out. If it doesn't, the people will change the rules themselves, and in doing so, lose more respect for government than they already have. 85% could by most people be considered a mandate. One that outranks even prohibition.

You want control? Have the state liquor control boards supervise the growing and dispensing of this herb. This takes the criminal element out of the picture. No longer will National Forest Rangers need to patrol thousands of miles of public forests for illegal Mexican growers. Just make friends with the guys that grow BC bud and everything will work out just fine. Oh, and I forgot to mention it is a taxable product, helping our spendthrift legislators get their paws on more tax money.

Public safety? Easy. criminalize use or possession for people under 21. As far as driving while high, also easy. Any time a cop sees a driver hunched over the wheel like he/she's at Talledega, but only doing 25 mph on the freeway, bust em.

Communications Giant, Verizon, Quits

The nation's oldest independent phone company is about to throw the towel in on wired phone service. Founded in Wisconsin in 1918, Verizon went through many name changes and mergers throughout the subsequent years. Three accountants from the Wisconsin Public Utilities commission got together and formed a corporation. They promptly bought the Richland Center Telephone Company, serving 1466 customers in Southern Wisconsin. Eventually, they expanded acquiring 340 smaller companies serving over 437,000 customers.
The company reorganized after the Great Depression, renaming themselves General Telephone and Telegraph, or as we knew it, GTE. The year 2000 found GTE and Bell Atlantic merged and became Verizon.
Citing the arrival of both cell phones and Voice over Internet, land line use by individuals has become a flood, reported a mid-level manager, who asked not to be mentioned, as they didn't have authority to speak for the company. Business use, of course, at least in the near future will still be using wired lines. One large factor in addition to the above, is the free long distance that most all cell users enjoy, as well as the VOIP such as Magic Jack, Skype, Vonnage and others. Among those state affected, are portions of Washington and all of Idaho.
The surviving company in this sell off will be Frontier Communications, bases in Connecticut. They will control all wired equipment and continue to serve voice, broadband and video services. Below, is the original press release from Frontier:
STAMFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May. 13, 2009-- Frontier Communications Corporation (NYSE: FTR) today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement with Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE: VZ) under which Frontier will acquire approximately 4.8 million access lines from Verizon. The all stock transaction is valued at approximately $8.6 billion. The transaction will create the largest pure rural communications services provider and the nation’s fifth largest incumbent local exchange carrier (ILEC) with more than 7 million access lines, 8.6 million voice and broadband connections and 16,000 employees in 27 states. Frontier will offer broadband, new bundled services and expanded technologies to customers across its expanded geographic footprint.
Under the terms of the agreement, Verizon will establish a separate newly formed entity (“SpinCo”) for its local exchanges and related business assets in 14 states. SpinCo will be spun off to Verizon’s shareholders and simultaneously merged with and into Frontier. The transaction has been approved by the Boards of Directors of Frontier and Verizon, and is expected to be completed within approximately 12 months.
The transaction is extremely compelling for all stakeholders of Frontier. It will provide Frontier with enhanced scale and scope, improved positioning, a strong balance sheet, and greater cash flow generation capabilities. For the fiscal year ended 2008, the combined company would have had on a pro forma basis revenue in excess of $6.5 billion, EBITDA of approximately $3.1 billion, free cash flow of approximately $1.4 billion and would have had leverage of 2.6 times EBITDA at December 31, 2008.
Maggie Wilderotter, Frontier Communications Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, “This is a truly transformational transaction for Frontier. With more than 7 million access lines in 27 states, we will be the largest pure rural communications provider of voice, broadband and video services in the U.S. Frontier is committed to providing our customers with state-of-the-art technology and innovative products. We are confident that we can dramatically accelerate the penetration of broadband in these new markets during the first 18 months. We know that broadband is a catalyst for a healthy local economy and job growth.”


Retained by Verizon In the merger of Bell Atlantic and GTE were the following companies.The merger is on hold while each state's public untility commissions review approval of the sale.

Verizon California, Inc.
Verizon Florida, Inc.
Verizon Northwest, Inc.
Verizon South, Inc.
GTE Southwest, Inc. d/b/a Verizon Southwest
Verizon North, Inc.
Contel of the South, Inc. d/b/a Verizon Mid-States
Sold/transferred/shut down
GTE Arkansas, Inc., sold to CenturyTel in 2000
GTE Midwest, Inc. d/b/a Verizon Midwest, Inc., sold to CenturyTel
GTE Hawaiian Telephone Company, Inc., later Verizon Hawaii, Inc., sold to The Carlyle Group in 2005
GTE Alaska Inc., sold to Alaska Power and Phone Company in 2000
Contel of the West, Inc. d/b/a GTE West - discontinued in 1996
Contel of Minnesota, Inc., sold to Citizens Communications
GTE of Iowa - Spun off to Iowa Telecom
Verizon Dominicana (CODETEL), sold to América Móvil
Telecomunicaciones de Puerto Rico d/b/a Puerto Rico Telephone, assets sold to América Móvil
GTE Government Systems to General Dynamics (The Information Systems Division of GTE Government Systems was sold to DynCorp.[34]
GTE Wireless (assets in Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Ohio, New Mexico, South Carolina and Texas) sold to Alltel.[35]
compiled from Wikepedia

Ninety-one years of tradition, starting with crank phones, dial phones, push button dialing and now, the beginning of the end.What next? Perhaps they will hard wire a communications modem to our brains.Then we would be on-line 24/7.

Turn Out The Lights, The Party's Over

The long weekend started out in Bayview with the imminent closure of the Captain's Wheel hanging over our heads. Starting with a packed house for New Years Eve, and lasting all the way through to about 7:30 pm Sunday, a full 3 1/2 hours past the scheduled close. Then it was over. The key turned in the lock, perhaps for the last time, at least with present ownership.

NY Eve brought the band, "The Keep," out for the last hurrah. Friday night, again packed house. Then came Saturday, with volunteer bands playing. Wyzer and ever goofed up band, Muddy Frog Waters kept the crowd entertained as customers that hadn't been in the place since Summer, showed up for the wake that it turned out to be. With the Buttonhook closed,as well as the Captain's wheel, only Ralph's Cafe, open Tuesdays through Saturday, and The Patio open seven days, 11:00 to whenever. The Patio also serves cocktails. JD's, of course is still open for cocktails, and the old Terry's Cafe is slated to open pending redecorating and code compliance. The new entity will be called The Bay Cafe,starring Dean formerly of Jimmy C's in Athol.

New Traditions

Today marked the first annual polar plunge here in Bayview. Not to be out gunned by Sanders Beach in Coeur d'Alene, a few hardy souls put the word out that there would be a mid-winter swim at the public boat launch at 2:00 pm New Years day. Sensing that there shouldn't be a conflict with boat launching, they went ahead without the blessing of the Kootenai county Waterways people, not to mention Fish & Game.

Well, nary a boat approached to challenge the launching area, but over thirty hardy souls, or perhaps retarded souls showed up all prepared to bare their skins. Actually for the most part, skins were not overly bare with one exception. There is always one. A fat male individual showed up in a scanty thing approaching a thong. Once dressed down, he pranced about thrusting his pelvis forward in a sexual manner. I guess we could have survived that, if it weren't the dozen or so kids ranging from three years old to maybe 7, watching with some real odd expressions. Unfortunately, nobody stood up and suggested he was on the border of indecent exposure. At the very least, he was an obnoxious asshole. Needless to say, his picture will not appear here.

It became obvious that the shore side of the Patio was grounded, when after the place was packed, more, fresh from the chilly 37 degree water, crowded into the overloaded building.I'm here to report that the flotation under the Patio is doing just fine, as the building listed toward the lake but didn't attempt to sink. Above are some pictures that I managed to sneak out of the place of shivering bodies.