Long Ago Interview Google

About twice a year, in this case probably less, I check to see what others are seeing about me, my writings and opinions. This is a long ago forgotten interview with the organisation listed at the end. I thought it might me of interest to others, maybe those in the field of jounalism. JOURNALISM What is your specialty? What subjects do you deal with? I am a feature writer, for the most part. I write for a local newspaper, as well as the occasional magazine. In which media do you presently work or have you worked? Spokesman-Review, Spokane, Washington, River Journal, a local magazine, as an independent correspondent.  Please list a web address where where one can view an example of your work. blog: bayviews.blogspot.com,spokesman-review archaives What is "news"? News is information. It is especially important if the news isn't available elsewhere. To you, what is objectivity? If you have an opinion before the story, you cannot write it. I have passed on many stories that I was involved in. Objectivity is being in the middle and not a part of the story. What is the best headline you have ever read? Japan Surrenders What headline would you like to see printed one day in the newspaper? Peace has broken out around the world Which paper do you buy on Sundays? Where do you read it? Spokesman-Review Does freedom of expression end where the editorial line begins? It only begins. Much of the time, biased opinion dominates even the news. Do you feel that analytical and investigative journalism is being lost? Yes With a camera on every mobile phone, is every citizen becoming a correspondent? Not unless they have the capacity to transfer the picture to the internet, and even then it is likely that the quality of the picture would not be printable. Then they have to have the ability to tell the story behind the picture intelligently. How would you explain the boom of the tabloid press? I wouldn't know. I don't read about two headed babies. What is your position regarding the right to privacy of famous people? Privacy, in my mind, is within the home or a private place. If a celebrity is posing in a public place, they are fair game. Still, telephoto lenses into private homes swimming pools isn't fair game. Most celebrities love the attention of the press. It just isn't fair game when they try to invade the privacy of your home, or your private sojourns. Perhaps as I am old and was taught at an early age that good manners were important in life, I am not in the main stream anymore. It seems that shrill insults are the norm and common courtesy is out. What can you teach us about the art of the interview? Listen carefully and take notes. Inaccuracy is the downfall of good writing. Please list well-known people you have interviewed. Ronald Reagan, Walter Knott, Rick Currie, John Schmitz, Deedee Beard, etc., etc. Would you say the journalism blog is revolutionizing the profession? Absolutely. It is revolutionizing the media and at the same time will destroy it if it isn't controlled beyond the shrill behavior of adult chlldren wanting to be heard. Somehow, between the last generation, or perhaps the one before, kids are not taught to respect others, or even practice patriotism. This may be a byproduct of the 60's when their parents were linking hands in street intersections, yelling, "Hell no, I won't go." What we have now, is a generation of young adults that don't have a clue about how to respect others of differing opinions. Will the paper press disappear? Probably as it now exists, yes. My paper is already half of what it was. While i am old fashioned and my mornings start out reading the paper from beginning to end, I am afraid that this is an over fifty thing. Either the younger set gets their news from the internet, or what is even scarier, they don't care about world events at all. What are your thoughts of the free papers distributed in cities? Well, I've written for a few of them. They are advertising driven, but then so are MSM papers. It's all about revenue. You got it, you have room to publish it. I just think the MSM has lost touch with their readership and will go down as a lost cause. At least in my area, most folks are moderately conservative. Some even more, yet the News media continues to support left wing ideas. This, I'm afraid will kill journalism before economics does. It's all about representing those that you serve. What is the book you would like to write? I don't believe I have the patience to actually write a book. You are talking about one to two years of research and heavy detail. No, I'll stick to 500 to 1000 word stories that I think are of interest to the public. Is there a motto or ethical principle that clarifies your decisions in moments of confusion? Don't deliberately hurt others and be absolutely accurate. What advice would you give to someone who has just left university and wishes to start in the profession? Switch majors

354 visits Whohub [bayviewherb] Herb Huseland Bayview, USA Ask me a question, make a comment, or request my opinion on something:

© Herb Huseland Web address for this interview:http://www.whohub.com/bayviewherb

Gravity Is A Curse

 The only thing that defeats gravity is a flat spot. OK I know. If it weren't for gravity I would spin off into space. Well, some will tell you I've been there all along. But other that the space thing, gravity is a curse. First I must preface that I am a bachelor. No house keeper other than myself.

The thing about gravity is that when you let go of something, it falls to the floor. Every time. Then without help from gravity, I have to bend over and pick it up. This requires effort. Especially if you are old (body broken) and or slothful. (which I am)

It is fairly easy to envision the outcome of this contest. Gravity wins every time. The only thing that defeats gravity is a flat spot. A flat spot for the uninitiated is any table, counter, piece of furniture, etc. I call it a flat spot syndrome. As I cruise through the house carrying what ever, I am sometimes challenged by only having two hands. This sometimes requires that I let loose of whatever I am carrying. It goes to ... you guessed it, the nearest flat spot.

These unnatural conditions create a mess on the floor as well as a place to lose things that are buried with other things on a flat spot. It is no wonder that bachelorhood is an unnatural state. I ask you, should I be required to stop what I'm doing, go home from the neighborhood bar and (shudder) clean house? No way, Jose.

I can see from one end of the house to the other. There is a distinct pathway leading to those areas necessary to navigate. Most of the time I know where my phone, computer and TV remote are. All important bases covered. As far as unpaid bills, forever buried under yesterday's Spokesman-Review are concerned, I save money by losing them. I may be in hog heaven. Oops, was that a Freudian slip?

Bayview Summer Accomodations

Many people ask me where they can stay while visiting Bayview. I will attempt to give you a roundup of facilities.

MacDonald's Resort has cabins for rent. You can contact them at 208-683-9107

Scenic Bay Resort has 4 motel rooms on the water. 208-683-2243

For longer stays, the former Scenic Bay Motel is now renting on a monthly basis.
"Bayview Scenic Apartments and RV Park rent rooms on a monthly basis for $550.00 we do require a deposit of $100.00. The room is fully furnished and includes linens. Included in the $550.00 a month are the utilities to include Direct TV. The rooms are studios. With the rooms there is a coffee pot, microwave and small refrigerator. Rooms are rented on a monthly basis only. Currently we do have one available.
The RV Park charges $350.00 a month which includes water, sewer, and electricity. The month of July we have no spaces available. 208-683-2215."

Other options are Farragut State Park for tent camping, RV and small cabins as well.
683-2425

Scenic Bay Marina has several RV spots with hook-ups as well. 683-2243.

Lakeland RV has both RV parking and tent camping. They are closed during the winter, but after about April you can make reservations at 683-4108

All of the locations are usually booked up for the Bayview Daze celebration which occurs July 6-7-8 this year. The best bet for that week-end would be Farragut State Park if you hurry. Bayview Scenic Apartments are the way to go if you have a month to spend here. Come see us this Summer.

Scenic Bay is probably the Idaho Panhandle's best kept secret with sheltered waters and plenty of available boat slips, plus two boat ramps. Although July is the favorite month due to Independence day celebrations, August is my favorite. You want to see a parade and missed the 4th? How about Athol Days. The parade celebrating 103 years as a city stats at 9:00am Saturday, August 11 followed by party in the park with booths, games auctions and lots more. Boat slips are plentiful and can be rented through Scenic Bay
Marina 683-2243 or MacDonalds Resort 683-2211.

For those without kids in school, September can be the best month of the year in Bayview.  The water is cooling down some allowing trophy trout fishing and the sun is usually out with real comfortable temperatures. While students are longingly looking out the windows of their classrooms, you can be enjoying a boat ride or a beverage at several waterfront locations.

Boat rentals can be found at the Bayview Mercantile as well as just about everything you will need for your stay. Not quite as large as a super market, not quite as small as your average convenience store, it beats the heck out of driving 17 miles to the nearest large store. MacDonald's Resort also rents boats. Unlike most mercantiles, Bayview's also rents boat slips.

Pet Peeves

Nothing bothers me while reading, to see grammatical errors committed by professional writers. Lately, I've noticed the word "on" being misused. I'll explain. Here's an example.

"Larry Coe will report on Monday to the team." This is incorrect. It should read Larry Coe will report Monday to the team. Using "on" suggests that Monday is the subject of the story instead of Larry. Please, if you continue using on, who knows where you will end up. But y'know, Irregardless, I'll still take the paper, but shudder at certain words or grammatical misplacement of them. (Above words  with tongue in cheek.)

Many of you are aware that I have written a few stories as a corespondent for the Spokesman-Review. That gig ended when the paper pulled out of the Idaho Handle Extra. I'm  criticizing a practice shared by many college educated journalists. I thought I'd warn you since I too, make grammatical errors, but I have an excuse. I am self taught.

Superbowl XLVI

For those mathematically disadvantaged, XLVI equals 46. (Confession. I had to look it up.) As per usual, the bars that have large screen Hi-definition Television has an advantage. Much of the time though, is spent doing other things. Eating, drinking, visiting with others, Eating, drinking, arguing with others, Eating, drinking, raising your voice, condemning the team you don't favor to the fiery pits of hell.

Many, heading for home, have to ask who won. Still, it was a great day. ... Unless your team lost. Bur regardless, it will be a great social occasion. With both teams from the Northeast, not many home fans will be present, but it doesn't matter. It's the one day a year, you will watch a game in which your team isn't playing. Such is the fate of us Seahawk fans.

We have a place here in Bayview that has it all. Great food, drinks and four wide screen hi-definition screens and Sunday, February 5 will feature a pot luck lunch/dinner, so if you aren't one of the faithful that doesn't bring any food, you can eat free. This is the Captain's Wheel Restaurant and Lounge, in Bayview, Idaho. If you are one of those mentioned  above, don't forget to bring a designated driver.

The pot luck will start at 2:30 with the game at 3:00 pm. C'mon down.

 

 

Bay Cafe

We have covered most of the businesses in the area, but one important one is the Bay Cafe. Run by the man & wife team of Henry  and Sheryl Dean, the are open five days a week closed Monday  and Tuesday.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner with daily specials galore. Just about every breakfast combination possible is offered here. You want Eggs Benedict? got it. Omelets? Yep.

Lunch features Burgers of many varieties, many sandwiches, fish & chips etc. Soup of the day and more. A full choice of dinner entries including steaks, Chicken Fettuccini old fashioned Chicken dinners and wait until you see what Sheryl does with bakery goods. Fantastic thick crust pies, cakes and more. You can order whole pies and cakes for take out with 48 hours notice.

Give them a call at 683-2424. Better yet, drop in for a meal.

Philosophy for the day: A Fiddler is a violinist walking on the wild side.

Ben Wolfinger For Sheriff

Out of the three candidates for Kootenai County Sheriff, only one has the obvious qualifications. Ben Wolfinger. Twenty-nine years in the department, attaining the rank of Major, tells us two things. One, he doesn't have to be taught how to run the department. No learning curve at all. Two, He wouldn't have attained the rank he now holds without being very competent.
Having said that, one candidate for sheriff is not a politician. He is a career officer that worked his way up through the ranks to Major. He’s a good cop with a balanced attitude toward the community. Ben was hired in April, 1983, 29 years ago. He is responsive to the community. I’ve had occasion to interface with hime when an officer or two got out of line. They were swiftly removed. He doesn’t tolerate law officers breaking the law, planting false evidence or making up probable cause to stop vehicles. He firmly believes that law enforcement officers need to lead the way in respecting our statutes. I would urge everone to vote for this fine officer and citizen.

Ralph's Internet Cafe

This blog likes to feature new businesses, but also to support existing ones. One of my favorites is Ralph's. A one man chamber of Commerce, Ralph not only pushes his business, but all of the others as well. Even his competitors. As near as I can tell, he figures that if you come to Bayview, he will get his share.

The motto, quite often seen on the reader board as you slide into town, is "Eat at Ralph's or we'll both starve." Well business is down, for sure, but Ralph just keeps on innovating. New specials every day, Chef Daveana Huff puts out great stuff, and you can get a beer or a glass of wine as well.

Bring your laptop and use the wifi at Ralph's. Espressos, lattes, chai tea, the works. Granitas great custom ice cream and much more. Breakfast, lunch and dinner with daily specials as well. Friday nights are Mexican nights. My favorites are the beef tacos, three for $5.75. Those are served any time as well as breakfasts.

You will note there is a substantial difference in Ralph and Daveana's stature. Daveana is petite and Ralph is six foot and forever.

Captain's Wheel Entertainment

Jan 28     Burning Gods of Love

Feb 04    Clint Darnell & Friends

Feb 11    Paul Cleri, DJ

Feb 18    Chance

Feb 25    Usual Suspects

All bands start at around 6:00 pm for those that need to tuck in early.
When bands are playing, it's happy hour all night.

Feb 5, Supper Bowl Sunday

Four Giant HD Televisions, Drink Specials, Pot Luck Dinner. The Pot Luck starts at 2:30 with game time, 3:00 pm. Bring it on.

Bayview Sunset Earlier Today

These were taken just before the clouds moved in again. I thought I would share.

There's A New Business In Town

No, the new business isn't in Bayview. It's in Athol. The Knead "N" Dough Bakery opened up last fall and some of us down the hill didn't catch it right away. Run by Gwen Bakie and Louise Voves (how could a baker loose with the name Bakie)

For take out they have many pastries as well as home made bread, cream cheese brownies, (yum, I had one) donuts and more. Much more. If you can't wait until you get home to sample these delicacies, They will feed you right there.

Deli sandwiches, soups, salads, chili, bread bowls and well, stop by and see.

The shop is located on Highway 54 in the building that used to house Attitudes Salon, which moved up the street a ways.

***UPDATE

We understand there has been a rush on the bakery. Remember how slow it is this time of year and how perishable baked goods are. If they don't have what you want, please have patience and order in advance.

Joe Paterno R.I.P.

Papa Joe Paterno is dead at 85. He has been thoroughly vilified in recent months over how he handled the alleged child molestation his assistant coach is charged with. I would like to present another viewpoint.

Joe Pa ran an honest program. To my knowledge, he was never cited for cheating in recruiting or any other virus that infects most major sports schools.

To understand how he handled the accusation you need to also understand the hierarchy in college sports.Coaches serve at the pleasure of the athletic Director, who serves at the pleasure of the School president, who serves at the pleasure of the board of regents. In other words, it is a pyramid with the coaches at the bottom.

For  coach to go directly to the police without consulting with his superiors would likely have caused his dismissal on the basis of disloyalty. They would have accused him of bring down the school, not the actual perpetrator. I do not condone this practice, I'm only describing it.

Paterno did not cover it up. He promptly reported the allegation to his superiors. He truly thought that ended his responsibility. The athletic director and school president handled it from there, apparently striking a bargain with the assistant coach, retiring him on the spot, also without informing the authorities. This is typical of collegiate sports. Protect the image of the University at all costs.

Horribly, while the president and athletic director were also fired, Paterno has taken most of the heat. Partly because absolutely nobody outside of college Station, Pa has a clue who the others are. It is important, to sift through the emlotion of the situration so as not to lynch the innocent. The only witness to the alleged crime was a graduate assistant coach who after reporting what he saw to coach, didn't interfere with the act itself and then didn't go to the police on his own. Everyone else was dealing with hearsay.

Over the years, Paterno has proved over and over his integrity, his work ethic, not only coaching his players, but mentoring them as he would his own children. He was a giant of a man. He donated a fortune to the university, endowing several departments. Nobody is remembering that.

Joe Paterno took the fall for those at the top that could have did the right thing, but didn't. Joe Paterno, dead at age 85 deserves as does his family, to rest in peace. I believe he lost to cancer because he lost the will to live. Everything he had lived for was taken from his in a panic by the top of the pyramid, hoping that it would deflect the responsibility from them.

*** From Huffington Post, a speach by Phil Knight, president of Nike.

Commenting on those events, Knight said, "it turns out (Paterno) gave full disclosure to his superiors, information that went up the chains to the head of the campus police and the president of the school. The matter was in the hands of a world-class university, and by a president with an outstanding national reputation."
Knight added, "...this much is clear to me. If there is a villain in this tragedy, it lies in that investigation and not in Joe Paterno."

Float Homes Sinking

                               Photo by Norma Jean Knowles
Just moments ago, I witnessed a two story float home on D dock at Scenic Bay Marina. It was half underwater with the snow load. When the snow turns to rain or freezing rain as forecast, we are going to see several homes start to sink. In the two sinking homes pictured, it is believed there is at least one boat crushed under the building.

The massive home owned by Eric Musson on A dock was starting to sink when it was caught. The owner, out of the area, was unable to help, but Friend, Mark Streater, saved the day, raking the snow off.It is going to get worse before it gets better. I couldn't get a picture, because I didn't  have my camera with me and I'm snowbound and on foot.

Gary MacDonald tells us that after a hard day's work, everything at the resort is safe. It is important to note that while marinas work very hard in these circumstanses to protect their clients, it is eventually the responsibility of the home owner or boat owner to check  on their property and hire help as needed for property protection. The last snow/ice emergency we has was 1996, the ice storm year. This year it could go either way, depending on tomorrow's weather.
Right now, I'd say we have an emergency on our hands. The one story units at Harborview Marina are doing well, it's the tall two story homes that typically get into trouble.  If any of you have knowledge of the conditions our there, please call me or e-mail me at Bayviewherb@gmail.com. We need to have specific info if you see a float home in trouble.

*** Update: I'm now told there was never any danger of Eric Musson's floathome sinking. It was just down a few inches on one corner.

Impersonations

For the last month, someone has been misrepresenting themselves as various regulars. While it may seem to the perpetrator as funny, it's not. I have decided to curtail all comments on this blog due to the cowardly actions of this anonymous creep. If you are real and wish to comment, use my E-mail address, bayviewherb@gmail.com. If the comment is polite, Germain to the subject, I will then post it manually. It is sad that in 1000 posts over five years, this is the first misuse of the comment privilege.

S'now More

The snow that started around 11:00 am in Bayview has stopped. The weather radar indicates there will be more sporadically during the night. Another system is due tomorrow mid-morning. With over a foot on the ground, more is not particularly welcome. Traffic is light to non-existent this evening.

My gauge for determining how heavy the snow, is to look across the bay toward MacDonalds Resort. It the view is dim, it's moderate. When the resort disappears, it is heavy. Both occurred today. 

A Robust La Nina Arrives.

The long drought has ended with winter's first serious storm. The weather guessers are somewhat befuddled, as several scenarios are possible. The only ones eliminated were lower taxes and pestilence.

So far, we have received about 6 inches of light snow, with it predicted to continue through Wednesday evening. The first questionable period is Thursday. It will either change to rain/snow mix, all rain or all snow. Take your pick. About three systems are combining to bring between a foot and perhaps more before the week-end.

Since those of us that are here already know this stuff, this post is dedicated to those that are in Arizona or other warm places and wish to gloat. In the mean time, local attitudes have switched from, "Gee, this doesn't feel like winter this year,"to "#@$&&@ snow is pissing me off.

Attitudes tend to vary as some, like myself don't travel if I don't have to, and others who haven't a clue and go out anyway. Some of these will be found in locations bordering streets called ditches and worse. Sometimes the word ditch contains several prefixes. The definition of "have to," varies with people. Certainly going to work is one, if possible. With us retirees, it is usually, Dang, I'm out of booze, or some such.

Meanwhile I count my blessings. The leaves I didn't rake last fall are covered nicely with a clean blanket of snow. My neighbor, possibly concerned with the odds of my having a fatal heart attack shoveling show, has volunteered to take care of those less manageable chores that come with aging.

Aging is a total mystery to me. I wasn't prepared, nor trained to have this thing. It seems like just last year I was chasing fast women. Nowadays I've downsized my ambitions to those using walkers.  The upside of course is that I woke up alive again this morning.

Bayview, Idaho is quiet today. If it weren't for the snowmobilers there wouldn't be any sounds at all. My pet squirrel is house bound and unable to collect his/her daily quota of peanuts, but hopefully some have been saved for these kinds of condition. Speaking of Snowmobilers, why is it they enjoy whipping through private roads and driveways braying their incessant unmuffled sounds, when streets in undeveloped areas, forest roads and such are readily available? I think a snow storm brings out the little kid in grown men, so they must zoom though the area, thinking, look at me, while doing their versions of wheelies milking the throttles so that you won't miss the opportunity to look at them performing. "May you grow old with a hearing disability from these antics."

Anyway, enough resentment about you snowbirds and your desert treks. May a dust storm obliterate your RV parks causing you to miss cocktail hour.   

Winter Is Here

The weather bureau has teased us with warnings of cold, snow and all but famine and pestilence. Outside of the eleven inches  we got back a month ago, we have been dry and clear. cold but not too much.

Things are about to change. a small system is chugging toward us from the Canadian coast, full of cold air and a little snow. That will occur Tuesday. What follows is a massive low out in the pacific that will follow the cold air into the region with heavy snow fall.

The Weather Guessers aren't real sure about the eventual direction of the latter storm. It may hit us straight on with over a foot of snow, or it may pass us to the north or even the south.

In any event, if you haven't changed over to snow tires, you may be too late. Even Seattle has had snow and  with those steep hills in down town Seattle, trust me, even with good equipment, it's bad. Try stopping just before the crown of a West East street. The light is just short of the intersection. With packed snow/ice, stopping just short of level is not a got idea. The light changes, you are screwed as well as the cars behind you.

Here in north Idaho we are blessed with good plows, small rocks opposes to sand for traction and strong windshields. I will be writing about that and dangerous swales while cool for good runoff, tend to kill those sliding off the road on icy pavement.Check out the placement of crosses along hwy 95. Every one due to roll overs due to the steep slopes of the drainage swales.Anyway, good luck for the following weeks and remember, Winter is just getting started.

A Town Turns Out

Friday, January 6 was touted by the Captain's Wheel as a pot luck and customer appreciation night. In addition, it was Staff night out. Out of a town that appeared to have shut down, rolled up the sidewalks and fled, people came out of the woodwork it seemed.

The bar was tended by volunteers for the most part, though Teresa Long hung in there to the last. She remarked the other day, "you know, it was the very first night this winter I had to sound last call."

I have been reliably informed that management is deeply appreciative of the support and hopes that many first time guests will reappear. There were even many of our neighbors from Athol, Careywood and beyond.

Since this occasion went so well, they are throwing yet another party. February 6, Super Bowl Sunday will be another pot luck. Details to follow.

Don't forget we still have several businesses open and thriving. The Mercantile, Ralph's Internet Cafe and the Bay Cafe as well. C'mon down, we're still here.

Oops: The swallow story turned out to be false, based on the observations of a noted bird watcher in our area, Chuck Murray. He claimed another flock of a different nature. The swooping and diving nature of swallows apparently got some observers to swallow the story whole.

Monday's Spokesman-Review predicts 1-3 inches of snow in the next three days. Accu-weather is predicting 12 to 14 inches of the white stuff in the vallys and over two feet in the mountains.

Current Resident At MY Home

Many people have wondered what passes for logic, ability to think clearly and finally methods for those activities. I give you a self-portrait of the resident at my place.

Swallows In January???

Several reports of flocks of common barn swallows that we normally see in the spring along with the legendary Capistrano return on specific dates has gone astray. Yesterday and today,Bayview found flocks of swallows  observed swooping and diving as they are known to do. In no body's memory have  swallows shown up in mid-winter.
With feed being flying insects one would assume food will be sparse. If these birds that normally arrive in spring die as a result of starvation, look for a real bad mosquito year.

Several opinions were put forth this afternoon as to the  cause. One wag suggested the Japanese earthquakes and possible disruptions in the earth's rotation. Another though the recent warm air bringing unusual rainy weather might be the cause.
Please keep in mind that these scientific opinions resulted from discussions  from the Bar at the Captain's Wheel. Still ... How weird.

A Community Outrage

Mr. Randall Butt, Manager
Farragut State Park
Bayview/Athol, Idaho
Hand delivered to the Farragut State Park headquarters, Monday, December 19, 2011
Dear MrM. Butt,
It is nearly midnight on Sunday, December 18 and I have been literally staring at my computer screen since 10:30 p.m. Ihave watched my screen saver go one and off multiple times as I stare at a blank “sheet” of paper with your name at the tcp.
Almost fifty years ago I attended a ceremony at the viewpoint located on the northern tip of Farragut State Park. Park personnel, Bayview residents, my family, and even the assistant Director of Idaho’s Fish & Game department were there to dedicate the viewpoint to the memory of my grandfather, Alvin MacDonald. The View ofthe lake was a spectacular and sweeping panorama ofthe lake and the surrounding mountains.
Over the years the trees and brush have continued to grow and much ofthe view was hidden by this growth.

My father and I have each volunteered over the years to trim the
trees and brush under park supervision so the view could be retained. We were willing to pay for our employees time to help with the effort. Our offer was made multiple times to park personnel, but they always replied that they would take Car@ Of il. I brush removal was done just below the viewpoint area on several occasions by park personnel. Their efforts helped, but the View has certainly been diminished over the years.
A few days ago one of my customers mentioned that the park was doing some tree removal in the viewpoint area. I thought, “good, it would be nice to see some more ofthe lake again. So, earlier today I drove to the gate near Vista Bay Resort and walked to the viewpoint. To put it simply, I was absolutely unprepared for the moonscape that I found. Last year, or the year before perhaps, someone did some logging and tree removal on the south side of the road that leads to the viewpoint. I walk out there very often and I was  actually quite pleased that the loggers left several gnarly atypical  trees standing. The trees are really quite homely, but they had “character” I applauded the fact that even though they were not beautiful in a traditional sense, they still had very interesting shapes.

I was expecting to see a similar treatment with large, medium, and small trees and bushes left to grow. Imagine my shock when I found that the whole area north ofthe viewpoint road was literally a clear-cut. Even though I have had several hours of time to calm down, I still find myself alternating between seething anger and absolute dismay. What were you people thinking?!‘?!? Was anyone thinking?

Writing this letter to you assumes that you, as the park manager, are responsible. However, I know that the property iuvoîved is Fish & Game property, Maybe you dídn’t make the decision. But, if you didn’t, did you have input? If you loved the area involved and had grave concerns, did you, as a steward of the land, think to contact area people to advise them that your park, our park, Idaho’s park, was going to be scalped? If you didn’t have those grave concerns did it ever enter your mind that maybe, just maybe, someone might have grave concerns?

My nature, as a person, is to respect the hard work that all people do as they perform their jobs. I am willing to leave people alone because generally I want to be left alone. I don’t want people breathing down my neck all the time so I am willing to trust the judgment of  others who are in positions of authority. You have made a huge error in judgment and right now I don’t know the level of your culpability. What I do know is that in my opinion someone needs to be tired. Maybe multiple people need to be tired. Our trust was put in you and in others in similar positions and We have been totally betrayed by the heavy handed butehering ofthe landscape that was perpetrated at the viewpoint.

l know that it is winter and things will green up when spring arrives, but you simply cannot replace trees that were 30, 40, 50, 60 years old. With some thought and planning trees could still have been removed, but some could be left to ñame and accentuate the view of he lake. How disappointing it is when such a failure of Vision is there for the whole world to see.

I have been a supporter of you and of the park for many years. I have long had the opinion that relatively Wild and untouched areas that are still accessible to the general public need to be protected. It is discouraging to  out that protection is obviously not a priority for you.

This letter is not written as a rhetorical exercise. I do want some answers as to who was responsible so the people who share my concerns can better direct their actions.
If you are so inclined I have no interest in receiving a telephone call. At this point I am truly sorry to say that my level of trust is at zero. A letter in reply would be appropriate.

Sincerely,

Gary MacDonald

Customer Appreciation Month

The presents aren't through coming. For the entire month of January, the Captain's Wheel Restaurant and Lounge has declared every day, all day as happy hour with reduced prices on all beverages. Fifty cents off.

In addition to the discounts, there will be a jam session every Wednesday with bands Saturday nights.

To kick the month off properly, a special Friday, January 6 will feature a pot luck dinner at 6:00 pm. In addition to the discounted drinks, Coors light and Bud light draft beer will be .25 cents

Pat &Heidi invites everyone down to party hearty.

Initials Can And Do Confuse

It was brought to my attention tonight that while there are three organizations in Bayview that have similar names, they all share initials.  Confusion can affect fund raising, event planning and many other functions.

Here are the three:

Bayview Community Center
Bayview Chamber of Commerce
Bayview Community Council 

While all do good work there are differences in function as well as membership. Apparently, in the past I have added to that confusion by using initials only. I will strive to spell out any future group activity with the full name.

I'm The Guy, Today Is The Day, This Is The Place

These were the first words I learned when I broke into sales following my four years in the U.S. Airforce. It was the Summer of 1960 and I set out to conquer the world. Set it on fire with my determination and belief that nothing could stop me.

In the case of retail sales, I'm the guy, represents getting to know your customer on a personal basis in a very short time. Sometimes within just a few words. People do business with people they like.

Today is the day. A person seemingly browsing from store to store is waiting for a reason to stop here and buy. You must provide that reason. Perhaps "today is the last day of the sale, or there is just one left," all are reasons that sometimes work.

This is the place represents selling not just yourself but the institution you work for.

These rules never change, except they sometimes have to be modified to fit a particular market. While I only wrote for about  five years as a correspondent to the Spokesman-Review,  I was still in sales. The crime reporter that wrote a gripping story about crimes and the travails of the victims, are sales people.

That I never attended a unniversity, nor a school of journalism, I got away with much, because my readers didn't either. They just liked my style of telling a story. Armed with three years of high school journalism, I charged forth to the often times chagrin of my long suffering editor, when I didn't march to the homogenized drummer of the University of Oregon or other fine schools or journalism. But I digress.

My point is that the unshaven man that races out to the paper box in his or her night wear was looking for entertainment and knowledge of how the world works for at least that day and through the eyes of a reporter. What, then, is their motive for buying that product? See the above. All of it.

We all know that circulation in dollars doesn't support the operation of the newspaper. Advertising does the bulk of the work.  Herein lies the basic problem. Does that unshaven guy rush out to discover the newest bargains at K-Mart? Probably not many, if any. They simply want what they bought. News and entertainment. The pulse of the world and nation or all of the above.

Comes the accounting department. An institution that is tasked with the job of making ends meet.  They have and are still failing at that job.Why? Because that forgot who pays the bills. Not the advertiser, they just look at numbers and demographics. Which medium gives them the most for the least gets the ad.

So, we having established what makes the industry work, why haven't publishers figure this out themselves. The tail is wagging the dog. Accounting departments never attended any school of journalism, not any other form of creativity. They are in the vernacular, "Bean Counters."

Yet the publishers rest their investment in the hands of people that do not produce any form of news, entertainment or knowledge. Just numbers. Circulation drops off because the number crunchers, hereafter N/C find that reducing content will also reduce losses.

So the paper shrinks, reporters are laid off or offered early retirement and the consumer, the force that drives the ship gets a notice telling them that for less we are going to charge you more. My friends, that is the definition of a death spiral and since all news people are fed into the system by the same proffessors, they don't get it, because after all they weren't taught anything about what happens when the "boss,"  the subscriber gets fed up and quits. Oh, and the editor that replaced the news editor that quit in the pride of a man that wouldn't compronise his principle? A good man, An intelligent man, but the head bean counter. Where have the cojones gone?

Kootenai County Studies A Retrogressive Sell out to voters.

For the last several years, and timed with Dan English as County Clerk. the precincts have been much more convenient. In the case of Bayview, Idaho, we had to drive nine miles to vote. Our polling place was the Athol City Hall.

It is widely known that the further you have to go to vote, the less likely Joe and Jill Six-pack are likely to participate. In some cases the Commissioners do this deliberately, since many borderline voters stay home.

This plays into the hands of wacko fringe people. Those will go where ever it takes to get their vote counted. To retrogress back to the bad old days where it is made difficult to vote would be a moral crime. You commissioners are supposed to be working for us, not a few rabid right or left wingers.

I suggest you think about this real hard, because if you do this thing most voters will oust you at the first opportunity. For those of you that have long memories, Council president Rick Currie didn't lose to his opponent, he lost due to a split vote. It might also be of value to look up the tenure of past commissioners.Single terms is more the norm that long ones. Sure money is short and the county probably has to make difficult choices, the cheapest method for representative government is out voter convenience polling places.

**Update: Dan English tells me that the Bayview Polling place is not scheduled to be eliminated, however how about the folks in other areas?

A Christmas Parade, Bayview Style

At precisely 6:54 pm, Saturday evening, I heard the sound of horns blaring, sirens moaning and horns honking. They were heading up Lime Kiln Road, in Bayview, Idaho. This parade having started 3 or so years ago was not sponsored by any group, at least an organized one. Pioneered by Phil Stephan and friends, this noisy, cheerful salute to the Christmas holiday, I had forgotten That tonight was the annual parade.

Kind of crippled up with reoccurring back spasms, I didn't attend the party preceding the parade, nor the aftermath which probably was just as entertaining. The last few years in Bayview have been tumultuous, with factionalism rampant. It was refreshing that non-aligned neighbors just did it themselves. I was honored that for the first time since this parade was formed, they brought the parade to me, although it was doubtful it was intentional, I chose to be pleased anyway.

Unfortunately, I fumbled my camera too long, and they were out of sight. I was e-mailed before this event that there was a citizen of Bayview that calls the Sheriff department every time this or other non-permitted event took place.

For that reason, as I watched the parade speed by me, with a Timberlake Fire Truck all lit up in Christmas lights, followed by a few some decorated private vehicles, that a Sheriff car with  blue lights flashing, was bringing up the rear. Considering the nastiness thing I mentioned, I can't help but wonder if the patrol car was part of the parade, or was chasing it. Oh well, details at eleven as they say on the boob tube.

Wrapping up this story, I would like on behalf of those residents that don't have a stump to shout from as I do, thank you folks for making this another fantastic Bayview holiday.


Merry Christmas to all, whether friends or not, for this is the season for forgiveness and reconciliation. In that spirit of Christmas, I forgive all of you that have from time to time pissed me off.

A White Christmas?

According to Accuweather on line, the week of December 18 through 25th will see snow daily except the 24th with the bulk coming December 21 through 23.

Long range forecast are iffy at best, but hey, with seven out of eight days predicted, it looks positive for this year.

Bayviews' 5th Annual Christmas Parade Saturday December 17th. It will be leaving Phil Stephan's house (corner of 3rd and Fir) around 6:30 pm. Phil will be starting the bonfire around 2 pm so come on up, decorate you vehicle and get ready for our little town parade. BYOB.

Ralph's Cafe just called to tell me that you don't need to go clear down to Higgins Point or Wolf Lodge Bay on Lake Coeur d'Alene to view eagles. There are an estimated 200 Bald Eagles present in and around Bayview, scooping up spawned out kokanee. Stop by Ralph's for maps, viewing tips and directions. The trees surrounding the navy base are decorated in white heads as the eagles roost in nearby trees.One north said resident claims his roof is white from the eagle poop.

There seems to be a heckler present in town that likes to make negative comments about others while not divulging their identity. Please be advised that I screen all comments before posting them. If you are one of those people that doesn't have a life and wants to be a pest, please understand that I will not be used in that manner. The delete button is real handy. This blog is for those that wish to stay up with activities in Bayview and the content is mine. I also sign my name to all of my posts. If you wish to slam someone you don't like, take out an ad in the paper. I will not be used for these activities. I do not attack others in this blog and will not allow anyone else to do so.

A challenge Too Soon

A couple of years ago, Sandy McGurk was in Vancouver, BC, driving a Trailways bus for the Winter Olympics. Shuttling athletes to and from the various venues, she couldn't reach her husband, Tom. She finally called a close family friend, asking him to check on Tom, figuring his cell phone probably had quit. It hadn't. His heart did. The friend found him face down in his shop, where he tinkered by the hours with various projects.

Sandy was called and to Trailways credit, they immediately shipped her back to attend to the unthinkable. Tom and Sandy were solid citizens and respected by all. Tom drove truck for Coeur d'Alene Paving and drove steam engine Sundays at Silverwood.

Last week, Sandy experienced what she recognized as a heart attack while picking up her mail preparatory to heading for work at Trailways. She struggled down to the Bayview Mercantile, where she could take advantage of the WiFi present there. She called 911 and was transported to Kootenai Medical Center, where she received two stents. She was also informed she would have to have bypass surgery later this month. She will most likely live.

Unfortunately, working part time for Trailways doesn't include medical insurance and her husband's expired with his death. Shortly after the stent she spent $260 for necessary prescriptions, the last of her savings. She is currently bouncing around in the bureaucracy that constitutes, Medicare, Social Security and Medicaid. Broke, but with many friends, it is hoped we can help her over the hump.

Once she has had her bypass, the bus driving job will be available again. That is, after a period of recovery. We need to help her over the next 60 to 90 days, until she can again help herself.

If you can, please donate to her, Sandy McGurk c/o Herb Huseland and send it to PO Box 884, Bayview, ID. 83803. This is a person worth saving.

Are Promotional Ads Misleading?

Last September, Warren and Cynthia Beyer decided to make some changes in their communications set-up. Living out on Cape Horn, outside of Bayview, Idaho can present problems since not all options are open at affordable prices.

They heard about a promotion that Time-Warner Cable was offering. This consisted of telephone, Internet and television in a package that cost only $107.00 for all three services. Cindy called the number listed, only to be directed to an 800 number. She called and the sales person on the other end, in California, explained the package and promised to have an installer out in a few days.

The sales representative didn't seem to comprehend that the end of service was 260 feet away at the neighbors House, even though Warren stated that several times. They paid the installation fee at that time, in advance of service. A technician snowed up in a few days and switched the phone service off from Frontier, then stated a crew would have to come out to dig the trench for the connection at the neighbor's home. They were now limited to a cell phone that "sometimes" worked if they were on the deck outside and atmospherics were cooperative.

Two week went by, so they called again, asking where the installation crew was. Well, it turns out nobody turned in a work order for the project. Several days passed without results. Still no phone service, with anxious parents calling without results.

Desperately, they called Frontier asking that their previous phone number be reinstated and hooked up.They were told that they no longer owned that number and couldn't reinstate it. Eight weeks from the beginning of this travesty, Time-Warner decided to send out a crew which dug the trench. During the next call, she was told a technician would be out the following week to hook everything up.

Week nine! The installer came out, tried to install dial up for Internet, which was unacceptable. Her then stated he had no order to install a phone. At that point Warren essentially threw the guy out cancelling all of the services that were or were not about to be installed. Currently, the Beyers are shivering out on their deck whenever a phone call comes in.

Today's Tidbits

Who says there's no free lunch. There is in Bayview, Idaho. Several leading citizens have put together a free lunch for residents of Bayview and vicinity, every Wednesday at noon at the Bayview Community Center, followed by pinochle at 2:00 pm. If you plan to attend, please call 683-1680 so that enough food can be prepared. (donations accepted)

Over at the Captain's Wheel, there will Be music every Saturday, starting at 6:00 pm for your early evening enjoyment. This week-end it will be Paul Celeri doing his DJ thing. He has fantastic equipment so don't miss it. Wednesday there will be open auditions for future gigs starting around 5;30 TO 6:00 PM. A week from Saturday will be, "Radioactive Blue, same time.

Monday morning, a good friend, Sandy McGurk experienced a heart attack while at the post office. She drove to the Bayview Mercantile, where her cell phone would work and called 911. A stent was inserted in one artery, with bypass surgery scheduled for late this month. Sandy lost her husband, Tom a couple of years ago from a massive heart attack. Our thoughts and prayers go out to this feisty, brave lady. Those who wish to help financially, can drop off donations at the Bayview Mercantile.

We Are The 99

We here in Bayview and Athol are a little different than those in the cities. Where dissidents and Anarchists camp out bleating against the system, the country and the fact that there are those that have more than they.

Here in Bayview, Athol and vicinity, we, the 99 are home comfortable in the knowledge that there will indeed be a better day. I have searched fruitlessly for the 1% that might represent the campers, but no. Not even one encampment and with Farragut so close ... Well you would think, right?

Could it be that the normal citizens or our area are the 99 and those poor fools in tents purchases from top flight sporting goods stores, are the 1% Hell, they are wrong about everythi9ng else, so why not.

Thsi attempt to destroy our society will not work of course, but it does point to the necessity for constant vigilance and remembrance that democracy, even here in our neighborhood, is not guaranteed but for words in a constitution, which so far have been enough.

Mr Tire Leads Tire Givaway

Many of us have tires in our garages that fit the car we don't own anymore. I know I do. In chatting with Eldon at Mr. Tire in Athol, Idaho, we came up with a plan.

Several people have dropped off tires they don't need anymore, enabling Eldon to help out those less fortunate that are having tire problems. Many times in the past, he has donated used tires free to those that could not afford to fix a flat tire. Recently, Mr. Tire decided to formalize this act of kindness into a drive to collect those tires you don't need.

I know for one, that I have at least 3 tires from my old K-car, long deceased. Here's the deal. Bring those unwanted used tires to Mr. Tire located on Hwy 95 one block north of Hwy 54. He'll give them to needy motorists for just the cost of mounting and balancing. You can reach the store at 208-683-2195.

Perhaps various groups could make a tire drive into a community project. Let's get on this.

Round Trip Finished ... At Last

Exiting Harborview Medical Center with Yvonne, my neighbor in need, I hit the freeway last Wednesday, during what started as a Seattle downpour. Realizing that it might be entirely different on Snoqualmie Pass, I headed east in a hurry. Sure enough, by North Bend, the rain had started to turn to snow.

As we topped the pass and started down the other side it became apparent the losing altitude was not going to change the snow back to rain. Finally, somewhere east of George, Washington, the snow quit and we outran the storm.

Several pit stops along the way at rest areas later, we encountered a totally deserted on past Ritzville. We headed out on the home stretch stopping only to grab a couple of things at Super One in Hayden. Coming out of the store, the car wouldn't start. We called Mike Heath, Yvonne's son to rescue us. The next day I met a tow truck at the store where we had the car towed to C&L in Athol. This Thanksgiving will be much more meaingful than most, since one stop earlier would have stranded us at a rest stop in the middle of nowhere.

By Friday afternoon and a new starter, the car was ready to come home. I wasn't. Having nothing important to do during the week-end snow storm, I left the car at C&L. Tuesday, I picked up the car to complete what was a seven day trip. I am now humming, "On the road again."

Thanksgiving Dinner

A free Thanksgiving dinner is being served at the Bayview Community Center. This feast is free, though contributions are welcome. Mark Thursday, November 24, 2:00 pm on your calendar for a hassle free dinner.

Turkey & all the trimmings, beverage, dessert.

To Seattle And Almost Back

What was intended as a round trip to Seattle didn't quite make it. I left Tuesday morning with Yvonne Wallis for her scheduled appointment with plastic surgeons. This was only an outpatient visit to measure her recovery and plan for future surgery to cover where bone had been removed almost one year ago.

We stayed in Seattle at the SCCA House which is a non-profit hotel housing patients and caregivers while in town for treatment at both Harborview and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center. The drive over was great. Sunny skies all the way.
We drove over to Harborview at about 8:30 and had breakfast at the cafeteria in the hospital. We then headed up stairs to the plastic surgery and burn center. The surgeon noted more healing was needed and set the plan up for the hopefully final surgery for April. This was a relief, since I didn't enjoy the prospect of driving over Snoqualmie Pass in January or February where storms have been know to dump several feet of snow in one day or night.

Coming back was a little more adventuresome. When we exited the hospital parking garage we were greeted by a Seattle deluge. Since it had only started during the period from about 10:00 am to 11:00, we figured we could outrun most of it. We eventually did, but not until about Moses Lake or so, snow all the way from North Bend to where we hit dry pavement in mid-state. We always stop at most rest stops since they can be spaced many miles apart. The last one was totally deserted.
We cranked the car up and headed for the homestretch.

Stopping off at Super One foods in Hayden, I needed a new supply of peanuts for the squirrel I adopted last summer. We headed for the car and cranked it up... except it didn't crank. Turning the key did nothing but produce a bunch of lights on the dash. Since my headlights worked I assumed it was one of those infernal safety switches or,computer modules gone nuts. After cursing modern engineering for a few minutes, I called Yvonne's son for a rescue. We shuddered at the thought of this happening at one of the deserted locations in the middle of nowhere. God was watching out for us.

Today, between GEICO road service and son, the car resides at C&L Auto Repair in Athol, almost all the way home. I received a call from C&L telling me I need a new starter. Just think. One more start and I'm home. One less and I'm stranded in the middle of no where in a snow storm.

Update: C & L called to tell me that the car was ready and a good Samaritan stopped by to pay the bill. Will generosity never end in this village I call home? To the anonymous donor, my heartfelt thanks.

Update: It appears that the anonymous donor was Chan Karupiah.

Weather Or Not

Well, the weather guessers are predicting a bunch of snow for this winter, but this morning produced an unusual thunder storm with hail, snow and what they call grapple, which essentially, some of all of the aforementioned.

Accuweather is predicting around nine inches of the white stuff for tonight and tomorrow, but forgot to mention the snow level, so it might be in the higher elevations, but be prepared. It looks like we are dodging the proverbial bullet, as they are predicting an arctic outbreak for Thursday, Friday and the week-end.

I leave with Yvonne Wallis tomorrow and am, devoutly hoping for decent weather while crossing the state of Washington.The folks at the University of Washington needed another outpatient visit. A huge thank you to all of the folks that have donated to her costs prior to scheduling the (hopefully final) surgery to replace the hole in her head with a permanent plate. Currently and since August she has had to wear a helmet to protect the gap in her scull.

We'll be back Wednesday pm and will let everyone know what's going on by Thursday. Again, both Yvonne and I wish to heap a huge thank you to all of those folks that have donated so that these trips and expenses therein can be afforded.

Local Taxing Districts Can Be Taxing

Kootenai County has many small taxing districts. Road districts, Fire and water and sewer as well. Most of the time these are operated without much friction by dedicated local citizens that spend many hours of thankless work keeping things moving. Until, of course something goes wrong.

A sudden rate increase, as recently happened in Bayview, or a couple of years ago a dust-up with Timberlake Fire District contracting out management to another larger district, can provoke instant negative involvement from otherwise quiet members.

Currently, a problem has cropped up in Carlin Bay. A community of upscale homes, many on waterfront, has hit a bump. It seems the Carlin Bay Property owners Association is calling for an expensive upgrade to it's sewer system, which depends on a leaky sewer lagoon. Officers of this organization are pushing for a huge increase in taxes to maintain and improve the system as it exists.

Others, perhaps even the majority, want to merge with another larger district with infrastructure already in place. Here is where the problem is. Many of these small boards are made up of community leaders that do not want to relinquish control. The big frog in a small pond phenomenon is an issue in many of these districts. Some personalities have a need to control others. On a larger stage, we call them politicians.

In the case of Carlin Bay, a water district of about 140 members, of which many are vacant lots owned by absentees. some members are claiming violation of bylaws, unequal assessments and various other sins of commission and omission. I was contacted by a member of this organization that vehemently oppose the board of directors, and base this information on their representations.

As Carlin Bay and other small districts grow, all will face at some point consolidation. In the case of sewage disposal, environmental concerns will force actions that thirty years ago were ignored. Existing effluent, both above the ground in personalities, and below in amounts taxing nature's ability to neutralize will force modernization and consolidation, but probably not peacefully.

Holidays Great For Some

Soon the holidays will be upon us. First Thanksgiving representing the thanks for the original Pilgrims survival, and more currently for the blessings that most of us have received in the past year.

This will be followed by Christmas which even if one isn't a Christian usually is celebrated.For most of us it is a time of cheer and celebrations with family members.

One family will not be among that majority. Michael Heath and his mother, Yvonne Wallis will celebrate Christmas by having nightmares, reliving the brutal attack by their deranged neighbor, Larry Cragun. While Yvonne, through the generosity of the community, will probably survive, Michael will never have his wife of twenty-two years back. She was killed during the attack. Mike has been unable to function normally due to his grief and the necessity of caring for his mom.

We have emphasized, perhaps wrongly that only Yvonne needs help. They both do. We are heading back to Seattle November 15 for a one day outpatient preparation for later surgery to install a permanent plate in her head to cover the hole that now exists. We have adequate funding for the trip, but oh so many other needs are apparent. Living in a single wide trailer, she hasn't money to winterize her windows and other needs as well. There is still the hopefully final trip in which her surgery is performed. Based on our experience from the first procedure, we will be in Seattle for several days, perhaps up to 10 days as last time. That will incur much more cash outlay.

We can't turn back the clock, nor make everything right, but each time she receives a gift of love from people that care, she brightens up, knowing that not everyone is evil. If you wish to donate toward her and Mike's expenses, you can send a check to me: Yvonne Wallis, c/o Herb Huseland PO Box 884, Bayview Idaho 83803. For those of you that have already helped, God bless you all.

Captain's Wheel

The Wheel is planning to maintain the 7 day schedule through the winter. Live music will occur every Saturday night, starting at 6:00 pm. This is not a misprint. The music will start at 6:00 pm. Saturday November 5th will feature music by Pauli, with Moore music November 12. As more bands are booked I'll attempt to keep up with listing them here.

Donation cans will be at most locations in Bayview to help with Yvonne's expenses. Please donate what you can.

Great Depression two

http://kootenaicountry.blogspot.com/2011/10/great-depression-11.html

Unbelievable Generosity

Unbelievable Generosity took place at Scenic Bay Marina in Bayview, Idaho yesterday. Hearing that Michael Heath had no place to sleep or park his old motor home, Chan Karupiah, owner of Scenic Bay Marina and RV park, donated an RV space next to his mother's trailer for the off season to Heath.

Many of you remember Yvonne Wallis and her trials after the dastardly hammer attack last December, But Heath lost more. His wife was killed in the attack. Yvonne, still awaiting yet more surgeries to her head, has only Michael as her care giver. He cooks for her, cleans house, does her laundry, takes her to doctor appointments and much more. With Yvonne's mobile home having only one bedroom, Michael has parked his motor home on an old forest service road for the summer.

Chan is to be congratulated for his generous nature. Many things he does for others fly under the radar, as he never publicizes his acts of kindness. Chan also assisted in covering some of the expenses of our last trip to the Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.

Heath will only have to pay for power he uses.

Team Yvonne

Friends and neighbors have set up a fund raising site where you can purchase "Team Yvonne" T-shirts and Sweatshirts on line. By visiting the e-address listed below, you access the company that sells them. All proceeds will go to Yvonne.

I urge you to show your support for this unfortunate victim of a criminal attack. Ten months downstream she still faces more surgeries on her head.

www.shirtsoflove.com

Lunch On Us

Hobart Jenkins, Jackie and Tom Lloyd have put together a meals program named Lunch On Us (LOU) to be served every Wednesday at the Bayview Community Center beginning December 7, 2011. It will be open to those in need and in particular to seniors in the low to moderate income bracket; however, no one will be turned away. Lunch is free but contributions will be gratefully accepted.

What we are asking of you is to spread the word to those who could benefit. If you know them personally perhaps you could just say that a lunch program is starting in Bayview and “needs” participants in order to apply for current and future grant money. We don’t want anyone to feel embarrassed or have their pride hurt. We just want to help at this dire time in so many people’s lives.

A head count for the first few meals is needed so we can plan on the amount of food to buy. Please call or email and let us know if you will join us for the Community Thanksgiving Dinner at the Center on Thursday, November 24th at 2 pm or any of the following Wednesday lunches beginning on December 7th at noon.

A generous donation from Carl and Wendy Costello has been received as seed money specifically to be used for this project and to cover the Community Thanksgiving Dinner as the kick-off.

Hobart Jenkins, Tom Lloyd and Kathi Ellis will continue to follow grant money. We hope to receive enough donations and grant money to make this an ongoing and viable project. Your tax-deductible donation (earmarked for LOU) can be sent to:

Bayview Community Center Foundation, PO Box 493, Bayview, ID 83803.

The volunteers starting this program are willing to do whatever is necessary to get it going and keep it going. However, we certainly could use more volunteers.

We appreciate you getting the information out.

For questions, call Jackie or Tom Lloyd at 683-1680; e-mail: jaklloyd@hotmail.com

Thank you,

Lunch On Us
A Bayview Community Center Foundation Program

For questions and information call: 683-8040 or 683-168. On line at :
jaklloyd@hotmail.com

Heading Back To Seattle

I just confirmed the next appointment for Yvonne Wallis as November 16. We will trek across Washington state yet another time. I'm a bit fuzzy as to the purpose of this visit, but it is in preparation for the final trip which will be more extensive and require several days unfortunately during mid-winter.

With the unprotected gap in her skull, Yvonne has to wear a football type helmet when walking or traveling. It is very uncomfortable. We are all looking forward to having all of this in the rear view mirror.

This will be a quick trip over stay one night and back the next. Yvonne wishes me to thank all of you that have donated for the expenses incurred from these trips to Seattle and back.

Not Ready For Sainthood

In today's Spokesman-Review, a comprehensive review of the events surrounding the attack on Yvonne Wallis, her son Mike, grandson Jed and Mike's wife, Patty. The story, by Allison Boggs hit the front page above the fold for those of you that understand journalistic language.

In that discourse, I was praised for jumping in and attempting to do what I could to help. Initially, it was covered dishes and moral support. Eventually it became known that Yvonne had an infection surrounding the plate that had been inserted into her scull following emergency surgery.

After consulting with Yvonne, and considering her fears and lack of comprehensive skills following her head injury, I determined that Angel Flight wasn't an option for several reasons. First of those was flying her over to Boeing Field, turning her over to a cab driver and dumping her off at Harborview Medical Center wasn't going to work. First, she was afraid of heights and flying. Secondly, she was obviously not capable of dealing with the various bureaucracies that proved to be daunting even to me.

After considering these options and rejecting them, it was clear that she had to be transported by car with a companion along to smooth out the bumps. Rolling that one around in my head, It came clearly to me that I was the obvious choice. First, I'm retired and had the time. Secondly, I had family and friends on the coast that I could stay with while she was hospitalized.

That is what we did. She had two days of pre-op interviews in which I was an observer. We stayed in a non-profit motel ran by the Hutchinson Cancer Center for three nights, followed by the unbelievable course of events that followed at Harborview. I will cover those in another post.

Eventually, she was released and we beat feet back to Idaho. For Two weeks, she had to stay at Life Care Center, which proved to be everything they claimed. The Cadillac of Nursing homes.

She was finally released in an unconventional way, which again I won't go into here.

Now to the title of this post. Most of my life I have been a self centered egotist that looked out for myself sometimes at the expense of others. I am sure that reflected in the multiple marriage failures I Went through. As one ages, if you are lucky, one learned from mistakes made. Sometimes through wisdom, sometimes through God given opportunities that tend to be accidental.

The incident with Yvonne was the later. Suddenly I could do something useful in helping others. It worked for both of us. I, for the first time in a very long time felt good about myself. Truthfully, I think I gained much more by helping than Yvonne received of my assistance. I have many warts. I'm thankful that before I go, I will have done at least one good thing for someone other than myself. I just wish it hadn't taken 70 years to figure it out.

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

I have hesitated to write this post fearing the ladies would think I take breast cancer lightly. I don't. My sister died of that disease a few years ago and I have friends here in Bayview that have suffered and survived.

Still, how about equality here. Us guys, including yours truly, suffer from Prostate Cancer, but does anyone hold a month long celebration of prostates? Not even. I would wager, (without the facts of course) that as many men die of prostate cancer as women with breast cancer.

I finally figured it out. First, breasts are cute, and boy howdy, visible. Prostates on the other hand, hide in the background, occasionally, when faced with an appropriate situation, spit a little. Sometimes it is in an inappropriate event, but today we won't go there.

To sum it up, while a prostate never shows it's face, if in fact it has one, breasts are proudly displayed for the world to see. Some, more than others. In summing this up, I think I've lost my own argument. Vive le Tetons, may they dominate forever.

Water & Sewer Open Meeting

Several lessons were learned this afternoon, as the public learned to pay closer attention to the Bayview Water & Sewer Board meetings and the board learned some things about accountability.

A mostly hostile crowed of over 30 rate payers packed the audience after the board announced rates were going to double for the next year and beyond. Two problems were evident. One, the sticker shock with the sudden harsh increase, and the casual do what the law requires regarding notification. Chairperson, Chuck Waller seemed to feel all citizens should pour over the legal notices, just in case it affected them. That was an ill advised lack of judgement in my humble opinion.

He constantly referred to state regulations. What he didn't or wouldn't admit is that those state notification rules are for minimum participation, not maximum. Still, as the meeting proceeded, it became clear that the board members were sincere in hearing every one's concerns. The end result is that the board will, in the future do more to publicize important events.

My observations, which aren't necessarily that of others, is that the openness of the board to hear complaints until the crowd had at last, two hours later, wound down. Some showed up with recall on their minds, only to realize that the board made decisions as they were elected to do, and where some would have acted differently, they didn't run for office. It was noted that directors have six year terms, one board member thought is was only three.

Disarmed and satisfied that the electorate had it's voice heard, it is my feel that things will calm down, the board will make sure that not just the bare minimum legal notice is observed, where elections and rate adjustments are discussed, that widespread notification takes place.

What we saw today was democracy in action at the grass roots. It isn't always comfortable, but always necessary.

On an entirely different subject, it seems that a potbellied pig has been hanging around the post office and environs.Word has it that a couple owning a pig as described felt it necessary to flee Bayview in disarray from their home on 5th street recently. It would be a kindness if someone were to capture the pig and call animal control. I'm sure there are several people enamered with potballys that would either adopt the animal or eat it. Either way, it won't survive the cold weather coming.

Two great Developments

Two really great things happened Thursday, October 13. One was a successful cataract surgery done on my right eye. I checked in at the V.A Medical Center in Spokane, Washington where they started to play musical chairs with me. Normally, same day surgery is done on the sixth floor. That floor, however was undergoing a total remodel. So I checked in with my Daughter-in-law, Jennifer Huseland who would subsequently pick me up after the procedure.

Shortly thereafter I was moved to the 4th floor for pre-op prep. After a period of time and several eye drops plus being stabbed in the back of my hand with an IV pic. I was then moved to the 8th floor for the actual procedure. I chatted with John Givens, the RN anesthetist. I related to him that I had been taught to administer IV's through a pic-line, which is a semi=permanent pathway to the bloodstream where an IV can tap in.

He started to look at me kind of strange, then said, "do you live in Bayview?" I replied that yes I did. He then asked "Do you know Yvonne Wallis?" I gain replied in the affirmative. Then he related that he is an Elder at the Real Life Church in Post Falls and that he met Yvonne one night when a neighbor brought her for prayer. She told him the whole story from beginning to end about the attack on her and her Son, Daughter-in-law and Grandson. The daughter-in-law, Patricia Heath did not survive the attack and Yvonne is still facing more surgery. It is indeed a small world.

The other great thing that happened on that day is that the IV regime was over and she no longer had to be treated every twelve hours for infection.The pic-line was removed and Peace descended upon her household at last. Yvonne will have to return to Seattle at least twice more. Once for pre-operative planning and determination of what type of plate would be emplaced in her head to permanently close the medical side of her treatment, hopefully.

At some time, probably in December or January she will have to go back to Seattle for that procedure. The trial for the attacker, Larry Cragun, is set for January 3 of 2012. I will keep everyone posted as developments occur.

Thank You

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Bayview Water & Sewer Meeting

This from Sheryl Puckett:

"Tuesday, October 18th, at 3:30 p.m. Bayview Water & Sewer is holding their monthly meeting at their office in the mobile home behind the fire station. If you're concerned please attend this meeting and come with questions.
Starting January 2012 the water bill will reflect the rate increase. Sewer charge will go from $20.00 to $26.00 and basic rate will jump from $11.00 to $21.00 each month."

It is unfortunate that the monthly meeting will fall during normal working hours precluding attendance by those in the community that are concerned with the rate hike. If the board really desires community involvement, an evening meeting would be more appropriate, as all other community organizations do.

More Help Needed

We are looking for anyone that has a set of 215/60 R16 snow tires. Yvonne Wallis, victim of the hammer attack last December, has to go to several medical appointments, plus physical therapy. Soon the snows will fly and here tires are wore out. It there is anyone out there that sold a car but still has this size snow tires, please contact me by either e-mail:bayviewherb@gmail.com or by phone 208-683-9107.

We think we have enough cash to make the trip back to Seattle for her surgery, but now it appears that it will take two trips. We'll hope for the best on that one.

***We have a pledge for $200 for the tires. We need just $200 more to solve the problem.

Aging

photos courtesy of the Onion Creek School.

Using the analogy of streets, at the risk of getting Doug Clark started again, I'd like to address aging. First, there is no training for this. One day you are lively, svelt and full of piss & vinegar. Liken to the four seasons here in North Idaho, the following day you are old.

My face in the early years started out like a smooth newly poured sidewalk. Soon I turned into an average street. Later, my countenance became more like a blacktop street with a chuck hole here and there. Now, it's more like a washboard gravel road, leading nowhere and becoming slightly overgrown. As I age, I'm more compelled to chase my family's past. We'll leave out the part during prohibition where my Dad, an uncle and cousin cooked up some suspicious remedy for what ailed the folks in the area.

In a recent post, I mentioned the school my Mom taught at, the Spirit School in the area north of Colville. Spirit doesn't exist anymore. It used to sit on the Colville Northport highway, referred to as the Aladdin Road. Aladdin doesn't exist anymore either. The original Spirit lay athwart the Y just north of the Blue ridge mine. According to folks I've made recent acquaintance with, there was a store, gas station and post office.

Since finding that school, I found the school my Mom first taught. It is the Onion Creek School, that sits on the side of a mountain between Colville and Northport. According to some of my sources, the local economy is driven by agriculture. Some of that is allegedly kind of not legal. The noise level in the area is raised by DEA helicopters blanketing the area. I would guess they aren't growing carrots and tomatoes up there, but I digress.

The older I get the more interested in the past of my family. Next summer, I will trek with my son, up to Onion Creek for a trip down nostalgia street. The Onion Creek School is not just a school. It's also a school district all it's own. They currently have 43 students and the original school is still standing, along side of the teacher's cottage.

According to Myra who is either the school secretary, or maybe district administrator, they still use the little school my Mom taught at as a rookie first assignment teacher. That would have been around 1927 or so. Pictured above, are the school and teacher's cottage.

Oktoberfish 2011

Oktoberfish, a fall fishing derby on Lake Pend Oreille is sponsored by Ralph's Internet Cafe and The Captain's Wheel Restaurant and Lounge. This year was a good one. 109 contestants set out to capture the wily Rainbow Trout. Lake Pend Oreille, if Idaho Fish and Game weren't so picky, holds the state and national record at 43 plus pounds. Unfortunately the Gerard strain has been disqualified for that honor.

This year;s winners are as follows:

1st prize went to Cory LaRue at 14 pounds seven ounces. Cory has shown up before in the winner's circle.

2nd prize was won by Randy Vanerkolk with a 13.2 trout.

Edging out Nellie Bell who held 3rd until Roy Stokes showed up was edged with Roy's 11.4 Rainbow.

Pictures above, show the winners in reverse order, R-L
Second picture shows Ralph Jones awarding the Traveling Golden Trout Trophy to Cory.

Bayview Water & Sewer

Several people have contacted me regarding a recent substantial rate increase. It may well be that the increase in totally necessary, but no local notification of the meeting or the agenda was given.

While it is true that posting a legal notice in the Coeur d'Alene Press is all that is legally required, one does wonder why a greater effort to inform the community was not made. We are not a big city. We are a close knit village of few, where informal notification would have been in order.

I believe that our commissioners are honorable people doing a thankless job. Nevertheless, I am hearing from some that by posting just the legal necessity, it was an attempt to circumvent the customer base. Perhaps a special meeting could be called to more thoroughly explain the whys involved, this time with better notification. It would also serve to placate those who are of a suspicious nature.