OKTOBER FISH

                                          
                                                        2009 Oktoberfish   winners          

The sudden change that occurs every year at this time is amazing. Labor Day weekend saw large crowds of boaters, with restaurants and local bars full up. Today, as I gaze upon Scenic Bay, the loudest sounds are the fish swimming by.

But wait. Summer is not over here just because many flee the area. We are entering what is called, Indian Summer. The big fall Oktoberfish contest is on.The derby will be held Saturday and Sunday, October 4 and 5.

Friday October 3 is the kickoff auction at the Captain's Wheel in Bayview. Tickets are $25.00 per person. You can either buy them at Ralph's Cafe or Friday night at the auction which will be held starting at 6:30. For more information call Ralph's Cafe 208-683-2218

First prize: 50%
Second prize 30%

Third prize 20%.

All proceeds are paid back to the winners.

ATHLETES & DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Gee, take the most violent sport with individuals graded on how good they are at it, and then wonder why football players sometimes commit violence upon their own families. Who woulda guessed.

A long list starting with sports legends involved in murder, rape and other anti-social behavior Then more currently, Ray Rice and Adian Peterson, people that are honored for the degree of violence on the field suggests that there will be a higher percentage off the field than the average.

We simply cannot assume that these athletes that are trained for mental and emotional stability and can turn physical acts on and off. These are for the most part revered from an early age as tough guys. Honors and  large contracts are bestowed upon some that do not exhibit mature behavior.

A lifetime of being paid for violent acts within the rules just isn't a surprise that it surfaces in one's private life. These personalities tend toward physical solutions to problems because they are trained for that. I'm surprised that most people are surprised at these actions. When you elevate an athlete to God like status for scoring touchdowns or crunching tackles you can expect it won't be left on the field of play.

There are laws that automatically raise the punishment of a professional boxer to a felony if they punch anyone outside of the ring. Perhaps that should be extended to football players as well.

Those that are trained to attack in many cases cannot turn it off when they leave the shower room. We shouldn't be surprised when these actions occur. While most people act civilized in a domestic setting, those that are trained as modern day gladiators are not.

ON

Many literate people share one trait. We have words that irritate us and from college educated writers. Sure, obvious non-words like irregardless are at the top of the list, but mine is the word, "on."

Read yesterday's or today's sports page and you will see the word misused dozens of times.For instance, they will say, "The Seahawks will play San Diego on Sunday." Why use the word on at all. The sentence would be just fine with "The Seahawks will play San Diego Sunday.

This redundancy burns my butt every times I see it. We wouldn't say, "The Seahawks played on yesterday, or The Seahawks will play on tomorrow, so why mistreat perfectly good ink on this literary weakness.

Alright, it is Monday and I'm over it. March on, troops!  

TIME FLIES

Time flies when you realize how far back it was when I moved from Dalton Gardens to Bayview nineteen years ago. It seems like yesterday except I'm much older now than then.

I was brought up to date with a Coeur d'Alene event which established a police sub-station on Sherman Avenue. I'm thinking why would they establish a sub station only blocks away from the main police station.

While perusing a discussion on Huckleberries on line dealing with the subject, I was politely informed that the police station was moved north to the northerly border of Coeur d'Alene several years ago.

It started me thinking about the old days when I  drove cab for Sunset Taxi. The night that I was driving Brad Hagadone and Tom Fisher late one night when I circled the block using an alley. I turned right twice and ended up at an ATM. Unfortunately, the right turn was onto a one way street that was going the other direction. The officer let me off with a warning.

The night I picked up a pedestrian who asked me to drive him up to Fernan Saddle. Since it was a strange destination, mid-Winter and late at night. Well it turns out he was a pending suicide. He had a bottle of booze with him and was going to sit in a snow drift drinking until he was drunk and dead from exposure.

I asked him why he wanted to do something like that and he replied that his wife cheated on him and he didn't want to live any more. As we approached the saddle, I managed to suggest that he might want to consider a smarter way like divorce, or counseling as an alternative. I finally said, "Look let me drive you back to town. I won't charge you for the ride, just don't do it." He accepted and lived to see another day. I never saw or heard from him again and have wondered these many years what happened to him.

Then there were the old days when I would drive out to the Fish Inn near Wolf Lodge bay to hang out.   When Sherman's was relocated into the old Ace of Clubs building when they were evicted due to the freeway being lengthened. Where Across the street was the "Boots and Saddle." Sherman's segued into a Mexican restaurant and now it is just a parking space, the building having been torn down.

Back when the freeway didn't reach Coeur d'Alene and about half way to Seattle, the freeway gave up  to a return to old Highway 10. Back when the Cotton Club was great hunting grounds for singles and yes, the owner was named Herb as well.

Back when I paddled a canoe up Wolf Lodge Creek a litte ways and started to catch Cutthroat trout, one after another only to find out the the creek was closed to fishing. Well, I got away with that but I learned a lesson. Read the rules before casting.

I moved away from Coeur d'Alene in 1973 and missed some of the infamous party spots that opened and closed while I was gone. A business failure in the 1987 recession landed me back in Coeur d'Alene with tail firmly tucked under me. Thence the taxi chapter of my life. I finally moved to Bayview in 1995, promptly forced the Farragut Park into opening the then coned off Hwy 54 by threatening to have them arrested if they didn't stop. withing 24 hours the blockade was gone and the road was opened to traffic. I then learned that many efforts including those from state representatives had failed.

That was due to a career in real estate lending which after financing the Captain's Wheel for the new owners, Im and Jeanne Campbell and The Nordstrom's.  eliminating  a long string of  contracts that with just one death would have tied up the title for years. I knew what button to push and did it.

Five years writing for the Spokesman-Review which left the Idaho Handle Extra dead. I recently learned from a unimpeachable source that they lost 50 subscribers in Athol/Bayview alone. It is very unfortunate that the print news industry sails blithely to it's demise, while wearing blinders all the way. Retirement followed and I spend a great deal of time gazing across the bay and counting my blessings, and sometimes like today, reminiscing  about how times flies.   

FARRAGUT NAVAL REUNION

Recent incorrect information regarding a cancellation of the navy reunion has been disseminated. I will attempt to rectify that. I called Randall Butt, Park Manager to verify this stuff. He was shocked and dismayed that so much erroneous information was disseminated.

There will be a navy reunion, but open to all veterans, not just the shrinking group of WW11 veterans that served at Farragut. It will be Saturday 9:00am start with the traditional flag ceremony. This will be followed by a social at Sunrise Campground This will include a BBQ  starting at 11:30 am. The public is welcome as well if they wish to honor veterans, and especially if they had parents or grandparents that served

Butt explained that in future years the tradition will switch to be called a Commemoration, rather than a reunion, which tends to imply that only those that served at Farragut would be welcome. Not true. Throughout the days activities, park staff will be involved first with putting on the BBQ and secondly Manager, Randall Butt will act as master of ceremony for the flag service adjacent to the brig. 

In addition to the usual activities, the brig museum will open at 4:pm for those that wish to tour. In addition the brig will open Sunday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. This will then conclude brig activities for the season. Everything that has traditionally took place annually will also take place this year and in years to come.

Other park activities are phase two of the sewer project adding an additional 4500 feet of pipeline and the shutting down of septic drain fields. A new wing of the brig will open next year with the south wall which was the brig mess hall will be refurbished and made into space for additional displays.

Perhaps in the future, those that are interested in sharing information regarding park activities, will make certain their information is correct.

As he did last year, Jesse Tinsely will entertain with his Uke and Hawaiian tunes. Jesse is a photographer for the Spokesman-Review.

WILDLIFE FOSTER MOM

I would like to introduce you to Dory McIsaac, Executive Director and operator of Mystic Farms Wildlife Rescue, Inc, a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation. The primary function of this shelter, is the care and release to the wilds, Ungulates. These deer, elk and moose are orphaned and brought to the farm usually by citizens, and occasionally by Idaho Fish &game; Game officers. It is licensed by the state as an approved facility for caring for them.

With most animal rescues, the animals become used to human proximity and are not suitable for release. This is the only North Idaho rescue farm that raises primarily whitetail and mule deer for eventual release. Other rescue group's animals are usually either euthanized, or sent to zoos.

Dory was raised in Wisconsin and moved to Alaska where she attended the University of Alaska- Anchorage. She moved to Idaho in 2002, where she saw a need for animal rescue. She was able to convince Idaho Fish & Game of her credentials for rescue, rehabilitation and release back into the wild of orphans.

It is not a petting zoo and visitors are prohibited, as too much exposure to humans tends to negate the ability of these animals to remain wild, thence releasable. Dory also points out that fawns are left alone frequently while mom goes out to browse. Unless you are sure the Doe/mom is either dead or injured, leave it alone. Mom will return.

Mystic Farms operates 100% on donations and out of pocket expenditures. There are no paid employees. Everything is  volunteer. Though the facility is licensed by the state, no public funds are used. The budget usually runs about $400 per fawn which is fed for a season before soft release  This year, fourteen fawns are in care and will be released this fall. Currently, she feeds about 7 gallons of milk per day.

You can reach Mystic Farms at their web site, www.mystic-farm.com or on facebook.
www.facebook.com/mysticfarmwildliferescue . Your donation is critical if this fine operation is to continue. You can also just send a check to: Mystic Farm Wildlife Rescue, Inc. 471 Wagon Bridge Lane, Sagle, ID 83860 Also, if you find a fawn in distress, call Mystic farms at 208-241-7081. They will come after the animal.

WEATHER OR NOT

It would seem that weather extremes are the norm this summer. Through the end of July, we had 21 days over 90 degrees in Bayview, and more in other areas not affected by the lake.

We have also had some monster thunderstorms that have alternated with micro-bursts twisting trees off about half way up the trunks. Even pines that are more than 24 inches in diameter  leave jagged stumps with the tops laying sometimes 15 feet away, and other storms with straight side winds that uprooted trees.

Throw in a Sahara Desert like dust storm that obliterated the sky with dirt from Central Washington's plowed fields and we have unusual weather.

I am currently sitting here having experienced a thunderstorm that lasted at least an hour with more to come. Rather than coming from west to east, this one is feeding straight north from Southern Idaho. This rarely happens, but when it does, instead of a storm moving through in 30 minutes, it can last for hours.

So what's next? Famine and Pestilence? Batten down the hatches. Anything can and probably will happen.

ATHOL DAZE GREAT SUCCESS

With the recent departure of Sally Hansen, city clerk, and a new mayor at the helm, the city of Athol showed it's main strength. Togetherness and involvement. New to the scene were Tammy Cunningham, City Clerk, Darla Kuhman, Mayor, and Steven Williams the new maintenance guy.

As I sat at the judges table waiting for, hoping for, a sound system, Shane McDaniel pulled up with the goods. We couldn't figure out how to power it up though, so we asked Rudy at Victory Auto Parts to intercede. Busy with his car show across the street, he graciously lent his vast knowledge of sound equipment and got us going.

The parade kicked of flawlessly and all of the entries were in order, which sometimes isn't the case. The hit was the gymnastics group which did some really awesome tricks of which when I get the pictures from the judge that took them, I will display on this blog.

Following the parade the party in the park went into full swing with eats, ice cream, kids games and stuff. This old guy wandered back to the car and returned to Bayview, satisfied that everyone did great.

ATHOL DAYS

                                         Sheriff Ben Wolfinger and Deputy 2013 Athol Daze

As the shadow of the abrupt firing of popular city clerk, Sally Hansen looms over the city of Athol, the old Broadway adage applies. The show must go on. Many hold Sally in an affectionate place in their hearts including this writer. But it will all play out with many still hoping that this is all a mistake.

Having said that, here are some of the events that will take place Saturday, August 9 in Athol, Idaho.

Line up for the parade is Davis Lane and starts at 9:00 am. Every year we have a great turnout of antique cars, neighborhood and church entries and those just there to have fun. As usual, the parade kicks off with the Athol American Legion color guard which does a great job. Please, those of you that wear hats everywhere but bed, take the damn thing of when the flag goes by.

I will again announce the parade this year, which starts at 10:00 am.

Following the parade, will be a fair in city park consisting of  fun games for the kids and delicious eats too. There will be an auction of donated items during the period following the parade. 

Not to be left out, don't forget the Victory Auto Parts car show which will occur at the auto parts location on hwy 54. 

8^th Annual Car Show @ Victory Auto Parts from 9:00AM to 3:00 PM, No registration fees, goodie bags, T-Shirts,  Trophies (CNC Plasma Cut), Music by Jen, Store Discounts and drawings all day for participants.

 

BAYVIEW BOAT FIRE

Shortly after 2:00 pm I looked up and saw a giant plume of smoke coming out of Scenic Bay just off MacDonald's Resort. After reporting it to 911 dispatch, two fire boats arrived, but the fire had likely consumed most of the fuel.

EMT its were heard in the distance. An 8 year old boy and a 70 year old man were severely burned, with extensive second degree burns  below the waist along with hand and arm burns.

Life Flight was dispatched for a helicopter pickup.  I have no current info on the size of the boat or the names of the injured.

FEDERAL RESERVE THEFT

As I understand it, the Federal Reserve is not a taxing agency. Ergo, where does their money come from? Just days ago, The Fed announced that they had to date purchased Three Trillion dollars worth of T-Bills and would be continuing that practice for the foreseeable future.

The fed announces to the Treasury Department, that they were buying a billion dollars i treasury notes. (Bonds) The treasury then puts the money to use, running the government and it's reckless spending.

One thing wrong with this scenario though. The treasury doesn't have three trillion dollars or even one billion dollars. They euphemistically printed it via their computer. (Sure wish my computer could do that.)

The bottom line is that we have been flim-flamed into a three trillion debt. We the public. If you borrow money so that you can pay another debt off in such a way that misrepresents the end result, you are running a Ponzi Scheme.

Are we so uninformed or uncaring that we are not outraged? You are being stolen from ... By our own government. For the record our folks in Washington, D.C. should stop talking negatively about tyrants in other countries that are corrupt. We have our own right here. 

BAYVIEW BBQ

Please join the Bayview Community Center Foundation for its Annual BBQ on Saturday August 9^th from 6:30-8pm.  We will be featuring Texas Style Smoked Chicken or hamburgers, corn on the cob, coleslaw, soft drinks and dessert.  The cost is $10 for Adults and $5 for kids under 8. This is a fundraiser to benefit the Community Center’s operating budget.  So, come one, come all! Enjoy some good food and camaraderie while helping support a good cause.  The Center is located at 20298 Perimeter Rd. in Bayview.

CRY ME A RIVER

Cry me a River is the new theme song developed by Doug Miller and his cohorts at Hydromaniacs, (appropriate). Citing disloyalty, sabotage and other sundry excuses, the one at fault in the end was Doug Miller, the guy pointing a finger at most everyone else.

In a press release yesterday, which I believe was written by Steve Sheppard of Hydromaniacs, shots were scattered everywhere in an attempt to explain what was obvious. Instead of attending to minor issues such as site security, Miller spent most of the time rubbing elbows with the race drivers and owners in the pits.

Perhaps the worst sin was that of Dissing the leader of the sanctioning body, h-1.How in hell were they planning a 2015 race after cementing their demise by insulting the people need to sanction the next race. Miller's ego got in the way as he was offered, contrary to the press release, a buyout by others that realized Miller was a brilliant promoter, but incompetent as a manager. If you wanted to buy snake oil, Doug is your man.

It is obvious that a race is a popular idea. Sure, not everyone is a hydro fan. But then not everyone is a fan of Iron Man and other very popular events. It only takes about 20,000 spectators (that pay) to make a successful event of this magnitude work.  Last year's event had that many, but most of them were not controlled by ticket sales security.

There most likely will be a 2015 hydroplane race in Kootenai County next year. It will be a new group made up of responsible members, and most likely a non-profit event. The fine group of advisers from 2013 melted away like ice cubes in July heat after last year. The huge unpaid debt and mismanagement caused all of the previously involved to fade away.

To blame anyone else for your own failures is just whining. There is an old saying; "Lead, follow or get out of the way." Doug, I suggest you get out of the way.

These stats are not audited, but believed to be accurate.

INB  $130,000
 H1 still owed $70k
Durham Bus Company still owed $40k
Traffic Corp still owed $30k
Hite Crane still owed $11k
NW Tree still owed $11k
Kootenai Fire still owed $15k
Kootenai Landfill still owed $2500
Pat Stroud  $4000
The problem here is Mr Miller and his plan to make enought this year to pay last years bills and this years bills. All with less than 30 days to get enough volunteers to make it happen. Total unpaid debt in excess of $313,500. In addition are boat rides sold believed to be around $5000. Diamond Cup, LC has offered refunds. Good luck on that.

A DOG'S LIFE SPENT

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=8Njp-QC7KMQ

This is a video depicting the pickup that Arfie was in. As is obvious, the dog could have done no harm to anyone, since the window was only open far enough for ventilation. The bullet hole in the window offers proof positive that the officer was in no danger at all. He apparently shot because he was startled.

A law enforcement officer has a great burden when risking his own life while serving the public safety. Having said that, restraint is an absolute must. I immediately flashed to an image involving a person instead of a protective pet.

Recently there have been way too many incidents where shooting a suspect is the first choice, when they all carry mace and shock guns. Taking another's life is a decision that should be a last resort, not a first. This officer has shown an outrageous lack of judgement. To shoot through a window at either a dog or a person, when the officer is not threatened in any way, is murder.

This officer should immediately be fired as unsuitable for carrying a weapon of any kind. A hair trigger response is not responsible, especially in a law enforcement officer. There simply isn't an excuse in this case that will wash. Down the road.

He needs to work in a non-violent job like McDonald's or ... Wait,  did say non-violent. OK, so a fast food job might be too much responsibility.  Try something, anything that doesn't involve good judgement, if there is such a thing.

TOO HOT? TRY BAYVIEW

If you live in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene or even next door and up the hill in Athol, you are going to experience weather that is tickling triple digits in the next week. Not so in Bayview.

The lower temperature of Lake Pend Oreille tends to keep the air temperatures cooler, much like an air conditioner. Our temps will register closer to ten degrees below the above mentioned communities. That along with our air conditioned restaurants offer an alternative to staying home and cooking over a hot stove in an even hotter house.

Unlike the Bayview Daze weekend, there are Very few people in town this week and plenty of space in our eating places. The temps also cool off quickly in the evenings here. So Y'all come on down,

LEGAL VS STREET STUFF

Much has been written about Washington's  new Marijuana law. I decided to do the math. At $25.00 per gram 3.5 grams (one eighth ounce) the price is $87.50. On the street you can buy an eighth for $40.00.

Somehow I don't think the state is going to kill off the black market. In fact it is possible that they have set the bar higher for illegal pot. One of the ironies is that you can buy an ounce from a drug dealer for about $300 and the minute it hits your pocket it is untraceable from the legal which would have cost $700.00.

When I was a young man, I remember all gambling except bingo was illegal, immoral and was reputed to break up families. Then the state found a way to tax it. Suddenly all of the preaching about the evils went away.

Now we have legal pot. While the federal government hasn't come to their collective sense, they are ignoring the issue in states that have legalized it. With 25% taxes levied against the grower, then another 25% against the processor and again against the retail sale, the tax which is compounded, is actually $95.31% Now do you all understand that pot is no longer bad for you?

It would seem that government greed knows no boundaries. Legal $700, illegal $300.00. If the new law was designed to attack drug lords, they missed by a mile. The moral of this story is ... What? 

YOU CAN HEAR A PIN DROP

Friday, Saturday and Sunday were hectic days with the Holiday events during Bayview Daze. Today, it is so quiet you can hear a pin drop. The loudest noise in town is the fish swimming by. This is typical for the day after.

No lines at the Bayview Mercantile, the restaurants or anywhere. Parking is available everywhere. The carnival that played during the weekend sits forlornly packed up waiting for departure for the next destination.

Yesterday the RV parks were full. Today empty. All is well except my phone won't work. My Time-Warner package quit on me over the week-end. I took the modem back and exchanged it for a new one. The trouble began with the new one not being anything like the old one. Where there was only one phone jack there are now two. Where there was only one Ethernet connection there are now four.

As you can see, I finally got my Internet working, but my phone just sits there ignoring my efforts to get it turned on. There are two jacks. Neither work. I would call tech support, but then you have to have a phone to do that. If anyone out there is acquainted with this type of equipment, I'd appreciate some enlightenment.

PS: Tuesday noon my phone rang. Apparently they sent Internet to the new modem and forgot the phone. Fortunately, 24 hours later it works. Now all I have to do is figure out how to set up WiFi. It mentioned a gateway without an instructions on how to set it up. How is an old fart like me that learned to type on a Manuel Underwood, supposed to know this stuff. Oh well, maybe there is a 12 year old living close by.

BAYVIEW ENTERTAINMENT

The big week-end is almost upon us. Entertainment galore. But wait, there's more. This year, thanks to Chan Karupiah, owner of five Bayview Marinas, the kids will have their venue as well. Chan has arranged to have a carnival which is being set up in the large parking lot across from the newly opened Bayview Mercantile.

Adult entertainment as usual, will be provided by local bars. At JD's, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm, The Wilsons will perform. The evening entertainment will be provided by Dave Green and the sidemen. For Sunday morning survivors, bloody mary's and red beer will be mercifully provided.

The Captain's Wheel just finished the largest stage in town which will feature the Gill Rivas Jam, outside Saturday. Friday evening will feature the "Usual Suspects," followed Saturday night with Last Chance performing inside.

The Floating Patio at the boat Launch will feature rock & roll with "Three Piece Suit" entertaining Friday and Saturday nights, 8:00 pm to midnight.

As previously reported, the usual fireworks display which is coordinated by the Bayview Chamber, but financed by you. Please note the donation cans located throughout Bayview businesses and provide for next year's festivities. A lighted boat parade will kick things off Saturday evening about 9:00 pm, followed by north Idaho's best fireworks show at 10:00 pm.

Come on down for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Oops, I almost forgot. Friday am, the 4th will be a red, white and blue pancake breakfast with blueberry and strawberry toppings smothered in whipped cream, plus sausages. Donations are appropriate. It will be held from 8:30 am to 11:00 am at the Bayview Community Center.

BAYVIEW MERCANTILE IS BACK

The great news today is that after 10 months of closure, new owners are opening the convenience store that has been closed . The great recession killed the business that served Bayview so many successful years.

This coming weekend should find the store open. If not, certainly Monday will find them in fine shape. It will be a soft opening, as all of the stock is being imputed to the computer system that controls  inventory.

Beer and wine deliveries are on going with the weekend in mind. Marie Streater has in spite of back problems,  and a  former manager, agreed to launch the store. Her expertise in inventory control is irreplaceable.

If any of us resented the small up pricing in the old days, I'd wager  attitudes will change as the reality without a store in town has severely impacted not only life style of the locals, but took a huge bite out of tourism. 

This town is dead without the Merc.

 In other news, There will be a pancake breakfast July 4 with blueberries and strawberries, topped by whipped cream, with sausage on the side. Donations in my opinion are necessary to keep community programs like this going. My mouth is watering already.

Y'all come on down. http://theothersideofbayview.blogspot.com/ is a good place to find a larger diagram of the parade route. Don't forget the lighted boat parade July 5.

"Yup! There will be a boat parade in the Scenic Bay harbor just prior to the fireworks display. Boats will rendezvous on the north side of the bay just west of the slide behind the Lloyd’s green 21’ Custom Weld aluminum boat with the tan canvas top at dusk. The boats will parade along the shore toward the west passing the marinas close aboard on starboard. Please join us. And please decorate your boat and make it awesome."

BAYVIEW DAZE PARADE ROUTE

Parade entrants can start entering staging area at 9:00 am. The road guards will be providing directions as needed. Please note there is a detour through Bayview so no one gets 'stuck'. 

Anyone with questions can call Norma Jean at 208-683-1980 or email me at njyesca6@gmail.com.

Anyone is welcome to participate in the Parade.

The Lighted Boat Parade will start at The Bitter End Marina about 9:00 is or at Dusk.

BAYVIEW DAZE 2014

It's that time of year again. Summer is upon us and the July 4 week-end. That means Bayview Daze which this year will fall on Friday,, Saturday and Sunday. July 4,5,6. Fireworks will be Saturday night July 5, with a street fair all three days.

The Parade will be Saturday morning. line-up will enter at 3rd St, go to Spruce St, and then the participants will go to 4th St. There will be a detour route through town which will be clearly marked. The parade starts at 11:00 so be sure to toss you anchor out in town before that to avoid traffic problems.

As always there will be live music, and frivolity at the local restaurants and bars. I have been told several times that the fireworks program is every bit as good as Coeur d;Alene's. As always, MacDonald's Resort will put on the show. There will be donation cans all over town, as the event is sponsored by you, and coordinated by the Bayview Chamber of Commerce.

I will have a list of bands available in the coming days.

RAY STEVENS, MY GO TO GUY

 This will be a fairly short post. The reason? Because I found a Ray Stevens song that says it all. For you that haven't followed Ray's career, he started out in the fifties with politically incorrect songe like, "Ahab the Arab" followed by several other no touch subjects, I grew up listening to Ray and finally after many years, found myself in Branson, Missouri. It was early fall and I was heading back home after treking from Bayview to Indianapolis, on to South Carolina, thence back across Elvis country and evetually through the Ozarks to Branson.

I think at this point that Ray may be coloring his beard, since I'm 76 and I think he is older. But I digress. Here it is, unedited:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2scxJNXjMI

Enjoy

BULL MOOSE REVISITED

Wednesday, I wrote a half serious half spoof post to explore whether there was sentiment for a third party. What I didn't anticipate, was that everyone rushed to Google, trying hard to discredit Teddy Roosevelt, or me, take your pick.

Immediately, Teddy Roosevelt's platform was introduced along with some snarky comments as to whether I was or was not in favor of a particular policy in 1912. Folks, you can call it the Shuckin' Corn party if you want. Ya missed the point entirely. 

Essentially, what I did was ask what time it was and immediately, everyone started building a watch. I don't know whether these people are humor impaired, of just plain old nit pickers.

I had hoped to start a discussion about the likelihood of a third party. Maybe they would just rather scrap with each other. Never have I experienced such a dense audience. Sometime you might consider looking at the big picture instead of using a microscope to find fault.

BULL MOOSE PARTY

With the disintegration of the Idaho Republican Party, several things occurred to me. One, with the state of the party, I was very lucky in losing my election to precinct committeeman last month. To have been in the minority in this, a Wacko dominated state, suggests one of two things. Most of us would not become democrats. After all, we do have standards. But perhaps it also applies to continued participation in the Idaho Republican Party.

The debacle in Moscow has demonstrated that the uber-right wing in our area would rather have power than a winning ticket. This aberration of intent pretty much destroys the philosophical glue that has served the party well for many years.

This isn't to say we haven't had party splits in the past. But it's usually the far right that takes a walk come election day. Is it possible that reasonable republicans might do the same? With the left turning further to the left, and the right the other direction, we have, through voter apathy left a huge middle without a home.

How about we resurrect the Bull Moose Party. We certainly have many moose to serve as mascots, and a home for the vast majority of Idahoans would perhaps triumph in general elections, while the Wackos on the left and right continue to preach to the choir in their insulation.

Looking to the left, any disagreement with Obama is either partisan politics, or racist. None of the administration's missteps are owned. The right, sits in enclaves, telling each other that they are the new saviors and will bring back the good years. You know, those years that we toted gold coins around for currency, not realizing that with the price of gold today, you would be hard pressed to find a coin in your pocket. Then there is international trade. Or maybe the Wackos return us to the glory days of canning summer vegetables because none are available from other counties that do not deal in gold. Actually, no nation today still uses the gold standard.

Then there is that pesky 17th amendment to our constitution that if repealed would allow the state legislature to elect senators. That used to be the case until transportation and communications improved in our fledgling country and that idea became obsolete. The term Statesman evolved from the first 125 yearsof our country when the population did not have the right to elect through popular vote, our senators.

I have been a Republican, and voted on national issues Republican for the last 50 years, starting in 1964 when I voted for Barry Goldwater. Now I apparently am homeless.

So here we are, with all but 10% left wing Democrats and 10% right wing Trogolytes, leaving the other 80% with no philosophical home. Comes back the Bull Moose Party to rescue the majority. You think?  

FATAL CHEW

Tony Gwynn, baseball great died Monday. He was only 54 years of age. Cause of death was mouth cancer. Tony chewed tobacco for his entire career which lasted 20 years. He spent this entire career at San Diego. 3141 hits, 8 batting titles, 15 times an all-star.

Smoking tobacco was banned in the dugout many years ago, but lined up in the dugout are several players, many Seattle Mariners, with big lumps of chew in their cheeks. This poor example is even made worse due to baseball players being  much more visible than other sports.

You see teen ball players with a Skoal ring in their back pocket constantly. This imitating sports stars is endemic with young people. While smoking has become less common year after year, this killer is demonstrated by super stars in baseball.

It is past time for baseball to outlaw chewing tobacco on the field and in the dugout. Gwyyn's death is a common one. Little known cancer of the mouth is just as dangerous as smoking. If baseball were to outlaw the public chewing at games, Gwynn's death will not have been in vain.

BAYVIEW ARD

The following link is for a story about the sub base here in Bayview, Idaho. It's a good read. You can find it Here.

 http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2658459/The-U-S-Submarine-forces-important-body-water-Secret-Navy-submarine-base-land-locked-Idaho.html

REMEMBERING PEARL HARBOR

I received an e-mail from a site called Witnify.com asking permission to add my blog post," Remembering Pearl Harbor." I did so and you can read both my post and the web site on  http://witnify.com/pearl-harbor-remembered-2/.

Naturally I am pleased that it was honored in this way. To date, I have had 323,057 page views since I started this back about 7 years ago.

You will note that I have recently restricted comments to those that register with me. I have recently been plagued by a cyber-spammer that naturally remained anonymous. By requiring registration, people have to reveal who they are. It is not surprising how few will not give their identity. They simply don't have the guts to insult anyone and refuse to own it.

I hope all of you fathers are having a great day.

FRIDAY HONEY MOON FR fDAY 13

I glanced out my window tonight just in time to see a magnificent display of a full moon. High in the sky it dared us to come visit again. Here are a series of photos I took in Bayview, Idaho.  Actually, the full moon officially was Friday June 13 and is known as a Honey Moon. And that is the rest of the story.

FOR SAIL

It is time for me to retire from sailing. At 76, crawling around on the deck handling lines, hoisting sail is just not in the cards anymore. This is a 21 foot Venture. Included is the trailer it sits on. The boat has three sails. A main that needs replacing and two jibs. This is a perfect boat for beginners, or just someone that's wanting an inexpensive way to get out on the water.

You may contact me at either bayviewherb@gmail.com, or by phone, 208-683-9107. A main sail would cost between $400 and $700 depending on whether you buy used or new. The cockpit has a raised hatch so that there is standing room below deck. The price is at a no bargaining amount of $1200. I have been advised that it is under priced, but need to move it as my storage space is going away.  I'm available most days and would be happy to show it at your convenience.

WILL LAKE PEND OREILLE FLOOD?

Watching the lake come up rapidly, and with reports that downstream of Albeni Falls Dam, there is flooding, I decided to ask the experts at the dam.

First, they informed me that the high country snow pack is still 125% of normal, with rivers running full. Secondly, the prediction is still with Mother Nature. If temperatures suddenly get hot, yes we will have a lake flood. On the other hand if temps stay lower, and with current night temps below freezing in the high mountain regions, probably not.we'll know in about two weeks.

We are at about 2061.0 now with full pool at 2062.5 I was here when the national guard was called out in 1997. Now that, was a flood. Float houses drifted off with the water topping the pilings. Docks went visiting other docks. 

 I ran across a post that I featured in 2011 when we last flooded.

Here is the link: http://bayviews.blogspot.com/2011/05/will-pend-oreille-flood.html

CNN LYNCH MOB

Before even medical and psychiatric exams have been completed, CNN is beating the drums for desertion. Countless interviews with those he served with and others in the command structure all point at guilty before proven innocent.

While there doesn't seem to be any disagreement with some of the basic facts, yes he did walk away from his encampment after his shift on guard duty ended. The why is the dominant question. Or should be. If he flipped out and became mentally unstable, he certainly wouldn't be a deserter, nor would he be the first in that theater to go bonkers. Suicides have been rampant, as well as other manifestations of out of balance behavior.

Until these issues are explored and become known, inciting to riot is not news, nor is it even faintly fair. His return home has been thoroughly poisoned without having heard his side of the story. To me, and I am a veteran, his story is of a mentally ill person who tanked mentally under the constant pressure of insurgent combat. To have to face the enemy without military uniforms or any other way of identifying them until they pull out a weapon has been catastrophic to many others in the war against essentially everyone. 

We ought to hold CNN to a higher standard than this display of mob rule and conviction in the media.

ps: The heckler that has been wasting a good deal of time on me has been blocked as spam.

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

Most of the education conversation is about K-12 these days, but with a college education out of reach financially for most in our area, I have a suggestion.

This thought was triggered when I read of a program in Coeur d'Alene in which a student can take college credit courses while in high school up to within one credit  of an associate degree.

I would like to see an optional 13th year added to our high schools with a fully funded degree program. With this head start, some of our brighter students can then attend Lewis and Clark for the final two years necessary for a degree, or even turn NIC into the top two grades, instead of the first two.

As baby boomers kids have for the most part grown up, there looms an underutilization of space in many of our school districts. This program would encourage teachers to advance their own qualifications for teaching college level  courses. Along with that we would have a stay at home opportunity for advancement past high school.

Then turn NIC into a Junior-Senior school, accepting high school graduates of the enhanced program with the need for a third and fourth year facility.

Revolutionary? Of course, but while K-12 is getting all of the attention, we are experiencing a brain drain of epic proportions. Most of our highly educated people are imported from other countries that have placed a higher degree of emphasis on higher education.

Not since the great depression has education taken any giant steps forward. We once made one room K-8 schools obsolete. Why not another large jump.

REFLECTIONS

It has been a week since I was a participant in an electoral drubbing. Two things popped out at me after a few days reflection. One, was with no experience in running for office and unable physically to walk the precinct and knock on doors, I was in a difficult spot. The second was running against a well prepped caucus. Extremists of both the left and right tend to be highly dedicated to their cause, even if that cause is off the rails as a practical matter.

I actually gave a sigh of relief when it became obvious that the entire slate I was wedded to was soundly thumped.  I wouldn't have wanted to serve in a minority role where attending county meetings without the opportunity to effect change would have been in vain.

Although as a astute observer of the political wars, I just didn't think dirty tricks and lies, half truths and outright fabrications were issued against me recklessly and often, would happen in a neighborhood like ours. I was wrong.

Mysterious e-mails,  comments that came to my blog of which I didn't post, indicated that I was several things I hadn't thought I was. The town drunk. I would wager that in the last year I have visited bars about 8 times, always leaving after a self-imposed limit of three beers and often as not, just two.

A leftist. I was brazenly told that I was left of Barack Obama and that I made Obama look like a tea party enthusiast. It seems that the big lie is fair game for out local Wackos. For the record, In other than local elections for mostly non-partisan offices, I have voted straight Republican since my first one which was for Barry Goldwater, 1964. Since through Nixon, Reagan three times, (once for governor) etc. etc.

Fifty unbroken years in which I have voted this way. If this is leftist, then perhaps my labeling of the Wackos is pretty benign. 

Whether I run again is too far ion the future for me to say. I will be 78 next time around and may not be in good enough health. But if I do, all the stops will come out and I will win. One comment laughed at me over the 91-50 vote loss, claiming I was the better known candidate. Yes, but through the years of writing both in the Spokesman-Review and nine years of blogging, I undoubtedly have offended some, as I have never been shy of offering an opinion on almost anything.

That said, and since I didn't have the advantage of being on the winning side with the losses across the board, I consider 50 votes as a plus, and then the large number of people that I number as friends were not in some cases, not even aware that the 20th of May was the election date.This accounts for why the totals. I choose to take from this experience the positives and I want to thank each and every one of you fifty, that knew me and had faith that if elected I would do a good job. Fifty votes from an electorate that was so moved that only 22% chose to cast their vote, yet without a doubt will be the first to bitch about a government they didn't help choose.

ROOSEVELT QUOTED

My brother, after reading my last post, sent this. I thought it worth sharing.

Herb--Sorry to hear you lost, but you should have no regrets.  As they say, you left nothing on the playing field, having given it your best shot.  I am reminded of a favorite quote from Teddy Roosevelt about daring to get into the ring:

"Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in the gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat."

To those that sent hateful things, I deleted your vitriol. Hate is a disease that overtakes the hater, not the hated .

STUNNED ...

It wasn't so much my defeat at the precinct level that was so stunning. After all, this was my first attempt to run for any office at any level. But the total repudiation of all of those candidates, some very qualified, others not so much that surprised me. Even Matt Roetter, arguably one of the hardest workers of the Reasonable Republicans went down.

Tondee I expected to lose. It seems that county commissioners stay just long enough to piss off a majority of voters that after all, don't much care for government anyway. But for some of the others to lose, many much more qualified for office than the winners, suggests that litmus tests of what degree of political philosophy one has is the only test for success.

Sims,Souza, Brannon, Nonini, all marginally qualified, but speaks the ultra-conservative mantra, won. Brannon's last job was working the counter at a surplus building supply outlet spoiled loser in other elections and probably the worst County Clerk we have ever had, won.

Because it wasn't a win here a loss there, I don't think it had much to do with personalities. What I believe because of the consistency of the losses, is that the frustration the voters have toward Obama and his minions, they collectively flipped out and went hard right.

Having met and worked with some fine people in NIPAC, I am more upset about their repudiation than my own loss. I lost with a 40 % margin to a little known person that apparently fit the mold for the new age in Kootenai County Politics. The moral here is, if you have momentum on your side, and you work harder and spend more than your opposition, you are likely to win.

It will be an interesting few years ahead. but sometimes the pendulum swings abruptly as it has this year. We could see coming from this, a rejuvenated Democratic Party. But not just yet. If the Rally Right people don't govern well, it will open the door for liberal causes to fill the vacuum.

And finally, I want to thank those that voted for me and mourn those that couda, shouda and didn't.

ELECTION DAY

Tomorrow is the primary election. One that could be historical in it's results. I will not bore you with electioneering today. Many have posted absurd last minute allegations as to their beliefs and that of their opponents. Poor manners, but I guess if it didn't work, nobody would do it.

Have a great day and be sure to vote tomorrow.

Herb Huseland

SOME FACTS

A few minutes ago I opened a comment made in rebuttal to my column of yesterday. In it, which I din't publish, though I might have if the person didn't hide behind "anonymous." This person objected to my use of the words, "Kook" and "Extremist." He went on to suggest that I was left of Obama. Go figure.

I'm posting some stuff from NIPAC website that proves interesting. First, a link to how the Kootenai County Central Committee voted last fall when they apporved a resolution tabling the vote indefinitely, to remove the 17th amendment plank from the state party supporting the repeal of the 17th amendment. For those that haven't much luck remembering numbers, that was when after the early years of our country, when distances were difficult along with communications, U.S. Senators we elected by state legislators. The 17th gave the vote to individuals. Apparently, comfortable with control of the legislature, they want the control to extend to choosing Senators. In other words, you vote to give up the vote. This link tells you which precinct committeemen (women) voted which way. For the record, my opponent for precinct 4, Clay Leander voted for the resolution to be tabled along with a majority of the committee.

KCRCC_17th Amendment Vote Minutes_November_26_2013

This site also gives recommendations for reasonable republicans if you wish to use it to guide your vote. f you don't know the candidates, the next best thing is to ask someone you trust.

http://northidahopac.org/?p=139

The only way the extremists can hold control is if you and others don't cast a vote. The election is upon us. Next Tuesday will tell the tale.

VOTE    VOTE    VOTE

LETHARGY HELPS EXTREMISTS

Extremists tend to be much more activist than people that actually have lives. This minority gets their voters out, when many busy with jobs, raising families and other pursuits sometimes cause folks to think that their votes don't matter. They do.

When the three school districts got together for a shared tech training school, an improbable vote was set up. In order for the school issue to work, all three districts had to approve it.  It was approved here in the Lakeland School district by 5 votes.

If you want the county and state to continue to be run by fanatics that want a return to the gold standard, nullification, which voids federal laws in Idaho and the most odiferous of them all, repealing of the 17th amendment.

For those of you that get the numbers mixed up, the 17th was when after 125 years of U.S. Senators elected by state legislatures, the broken system was fixed. The 17th. Now we can vote directly for our senators. For those that like trivia, that is where the term Statesman came from. Now these boobs expect you to vote for the right to not be able to vote.  The 17th was approved by 36 of the states. How many of you think those states are going to turn the clock back?

These issues are not even probable if they were local and state issues. They are non-starters. Yet these people howl at the full moon and yearn for yesterday. Even my opponent for precinct committeeman voted to repeal the 17th amendment in the County Republican Central Committee. Why they took such an asinine vote shows the control over which the former Constitutionalist and severe libertarians have dominated out area. Realism has deserted many of these stalwart Wackos.

Whatever you vote, do not let the extremists win due to low poll numbers. Get out and vote even if you favor the wackos. Just participate. Oh, and vote for Herb Huseland for Precinct Committeeman. I like the constitution just fine the way it is.

WHEN YOU GET OLD

I just realized that some things, you do different when getting old. A few minutes ago, with my face full of computer, I thought I heard rain on the roof. So ... I call up accu- weather.  Now I could have just got up and opened the door, but I'm so used to weather forecasters that don't, that I emulated them by heading for on line weather.  It said it wasn't raining, so I ignored the sounds.

Then there are the trips to the refrigerator. I struggle up out of my recliner. Don't get addicted to those things. Ya can't get out once you have sunk into the bliss of one. I think it might be something like alcoholism. An afternoon nap is too much and  and a few minutes isn't enough. Living in a recliner is a bit restricting, yet the same amount of time spent free in the recliner as you might have spent in a bar is an amazing financial difference.Back to the refrigerator.

How many times have you got up, walked to the kitchen, peered into the fridge and can't remember why you got up, let along what you wanted in the fridge. I do this a lot. When I was a teen, it was a serious foraging trek. Now it is looking for something that is tasty. I spend over $150 per month at the store, fill my freezer, yet there doesn't seem to be anything good. Loss of appetite strikes too.  The only good thing about that is when you eat out, you can take the next day's meal home with you in a go box. That of course if you can afford to eat out.

When I was younger, my mail had all kinds of ads for pre-approved credit cards. No all I get is pre-rejected ones. My junk mail tends toward stuff like hearing aid ads, advertisements for assisited living, and of course the obligatory ads for Viagra, Cialis and stuff. First, any couple that are bathing in separate bathtubs, can't be very romantic. I'm not very good at throwing a football through a tire swing either. Besides, none of these pills find ladies for you.

Interest rates are interesting, too. When I was younger, a card with a $7000 limit was 7.5% interest. Now they proudly claim that regardless of the 25% interest rate, you get money back with every purchase. If people buy into that it's no wonder why they have to charge that much.

Mornings. To working people, mornings are a time of waking, drinking a quick cup of coffee and rushing out the door to work. This all happens before 7:00 am. To a retired person, mornings are a time to get up to pee. Then if you can, you roll over and go back to sleep. Morning, noon or night mean nothing other that when your favorite TV show are on.

My cable powered telephone can now call Mexico too. Free. Do I get a refund if I don't know anyone in Mexico? No. I think I do know people in Yuma and Phoenix, but they slyly go to my blog to find out what I'm up to  without having to talk to me.

Getting old is aches and strange pains in places you never found them before. Your body begins to deteriorate. I go to the doctor and complain about stuff. He kindly says, it's just getting old, Herb. I tell him I'm going to check in with him anyway, since I have no previous experience being old. The only thing good about my age is that I made it this far without expiring. There are those however, that will dispute that.

You see, once you are old, your opinions get clearer, truth is evident in your every thought and you become very wise and all knowing. Do you suppose that is why my phone never rings? Even from Mexico?

CANDIDATE NIGHT

Don't forget candidate night at the Captain's Wheel in Bayview, Idaho. Wednesday, May 7 at 7:00 pm.
Candidates that are attending are: Ed Morse, Fritz Wiedenhoff-State Legislature. Tim Herzog, County Commissioner. Don Pischner, Kootenai County Clerk. Laurie Thomas, Kootenai County Treasurer. Oh and I almost forgot. Myself, Herb Huseland, precinct 4 committeeman. Mike McDowellwill be present as well.

This will be your only chance to meet candidates in Bayview. The event is invitational regarding candidate speakers, but the public is of course invivted to hear and ask questions of all.

If you come early, have dinner at the Captain's Wheel. It would be our way to thank them for their donation of the space and time.

The primary election is coming up soon. May 20. Your polling place is at the Bayview Community Center. I am supporting NIPAC candidates for the most part. We are trying to take back the Republican Party from the successful attack of 4 and 6 years ago by re registered Constitutionalists and Libertarians

The County Central Committee is made up of the 70 precinct committeemen/women. When a vacancy occurs as it did upon the county clerk, Cliff Hayes's recent death the central committee apppoints 3 candidates. This list is then used by the county commissioners to select from. This is how we ended up with Brannon as interim Clerk. He is from the "Rally Right" group of ultra-conservatives that changed from the Constitution party to Republicans  for the purpose of controlling the local party.

NIPAC, North Idaho  Political Action Committee is represented by these candidates, for the most part. If you are not registered to vote, or are registered as un-affiliated, you can register as a Republican when you go to the polls May 20. We will help you with that when you come to the Wheel Wednesday night. Be There.

REASONABLE REPUBLICANS ONLY

To clarify matters, which I have managed to confuse, there will be a Republican candidates meet & greet at the Captain's Wheel in Bayview, Wednesday, May 7 at 7:00 PM. It dose not include Rally Right, recent converts from the Constitution Party, nor libertarians.

The previous plan was to hold it at the Community Center, but with the provision that everyone had to be invited. The Community Center cancelled due to a lack of candidates. Again that was my fault, due to the wrong list of candidates invited, some or most of which weren't in our legislative district.

Since this  became a private gathering, I was able to limit the participation to those that are "Reasonable Republicans" not whacked out on issues uch as repeal of the 17th amendment to the US Constitution, back to the gold standard, Nullification . For those not familiar with the jargon, Nullification would prevent federal laws from being enforced in the state of Idaho.

While obviously, improvements could be made between the ever growing federal government and the ever shrinking authority of the states, none of the above rants represent reality. The Civil War was fought over nullification. The confederacy lost. End of argument.

For those of you that do not remember which amendment the 17th is, it took the early U.S. out of selecting senators by the state legislatures, and gave people to right to vote individually for those offices. A extremist legislature would most likely end up electing other extremists. Bottom line is very few people with any sense at all, would vote to lose their vote.

The guests that will be appearing, are: For legislature, Fritz Weidenhoff and Ed Morse. County Commissioner, Tim Herzog. County Clerk, Don Pischner, Kootenai County Treasurer, Laurie Thomas and myself running for precinct 4 committeeman. Precinct 4 is Bayview, Cape Horn and most of the land between Farragut State Park and Hwy 95, or to make it simpler, if you vote at the Bayview Community Center you are in Precinct 4.  Many of you probably don't know that while county clerk, Dan created precinct 4, eliminating the need to drive to Athol for voting

Come on down to the Captain's Wheel and get to know these candidates that either are or may be serving you in an elected capacity.Oh, I almost forgot to mention a guest of honor that used to be a democrat and County Clerk, Dan English. Dan and his wife lived on a float home in Bayview for several years. Dan isn't running for anything currently but you never know.

Kootenai County Precinct 52

Nevada has it's Area 51 with strange mysterious things alluded to. Kootenai County has it's counterpart in Area ... er, Precinct 52, where strange and mysterious things are happening. It all started when Bjorn Handeen moved to that precinct from Minnesota where he was associated with fringe political groups. He joined the Constitution Party in 2003 and moved to Kootenai County at the same time as several other Constitutionalists and Libertarians also relocated here, 2007.

Apparently Idaho was considered the new battleground to save the world through super patriots taking control. Well, they have. In 2010 the local Republican Central Committee was caught off guard while these fringe players walked the precincts looking for support as precinct committeeman. Most voters are interested in county, state and federal elections but seldom pay any attention to precinct committeemen.

That little box at the end of the ballot usually has a name few recognize and many skip over it. I know I have been guilty of that myself. It is however, the vital heart of the party. It endorses candidates, raises funds for campaigns and most importantly, names replacements for all offices vacated during a term. An example of that is our new county Clerk. The previously voted in clerk suddenly died leaving a vacancy.

Our law requires that the party to which the predecessor belonged to must submit three names to the county commissioners from which they picked from. Three guesses. All were of the same extremist ilk.
Several of us looked for someone that would actually be qualified to serve. None in our opinion did. They were more interested in control than quality government.

A vast majority of traditional Republicans or what is becoming more in use, "Reasonable Republicans," suddenly realized that the central committee had been hijacked by these newcomers from other states that took time only to remove their coats before embarking upon changing things around so thy would have control. They did and it worked.

Word on the street is that nobody would run against the entrenched recent republicans/constitutionalists. We don't know the why, but do know that he was unopposed at filing deadline.

Some of the well known goals of these people, repeal of the 17th amendment to the US constitution. For those  of you that have forgotten, at the beginning of our nation, with distances being great and transportation slow, The state legislatures picked the senators, which is where the term "Statesman" came from. Back in the early 1900's it was decided that all of these problems were in the past. A bill was passed by congress and ratified by the states for the people to have the vote instead of congress where in many cases, Tamany Hall in New York, many other areas had corrupt legislatures, too easy to buy off in picking the senate.

Now these charitable people want you to vote for people that will take away your right to elect senators.

Another issue is what is called "Nullification." In a nut shell, (no pun intended) is to take the right of the federal government to apply federal law to the states. You may remember that last time that happened. South Carolina fired on Fort Sumter and the Civil War began. Then there is a wish for the return of the gold standard.

By this time if you have read this far the thought comes to mind, "where are their minds. They are out chasing their tail with issues that have not a chance of succeeding. As elected officials instead of doing the people's business, they are chasing a pipe dream. Handeen has even accused our party as having Stockholm Syndrome, or loving your captors.

Comes now a woman, who lives in precinct 52. she, Susan Manthey is the mother of three including a 21 year old Marine corporal. She, hearing from her son at Camp Pendleton, was urged by her son to participate. Filing had closed, but Susan couldn't live with representation by a 17th amendment repeal, gold standard and nullification advocate.  Party members were contacted and a write-in candidacy was born. Her name is Susan Manthey. If you live in Hayden Lake are area and are in precinct 52, this is important and you can make a difference. She will appear on the ballot as a write-in. Be sure that in addition to her name, check the box too. MANTHEY.

Labrador, Nonini

Raul Labrador will be hosted by Bob Nonini at a meet and greet Friday to be held at the Post Falls American Legion Post. The event will start at 11:30

Candidate Meet & Greet

We are holding a meet and greet with several candidates that are running in the primary election May 20. We will meet at the Captain's Wheel Restaurant Wednesday, May 7 at 7:00 pm in Bayview.

This may be your only chance to meet new candidates and some old ones too. Ed Morse will be there along with Fritz Weidenhoff, Laurie Thomas, Tim Herzog and whoever else shows up. Other than Morse, these are candidates for county offices.

The importance of getting to know not only the canddiates, but the issues as well cannot be understated. The "Reasonable Republicans," or traditional if you prefer is attempting an all out campaign to oust the Constitutionalists or Rally right extremists from  local offices.

We got rid of Phil Hart, who had disgraced himself and embarrassed the Republican Party, but there are more. These people want to repeal your right to vote for US Senator and hand it back to state legislatures as it was during the nation's early days. This is know as the 17th amendment to the constitution.

They also believe in returning to the gold standard and "nullification." Nullification is the term for shedding federal government from the state of Idaho. This would mean civil war, as it did during the 1800's. Obviously none of these issues will win out, but while other office holders are dilligently doing their jobs, these kooks are addressing issues that require a constitutional act which is somewhere between a waste of taxpayers time and money, and an impossible dream.

The candidates attending this meet and greet are all reasonable republicans. Come on down and let them tell you what's happening.

CAMPAIGNING WE WILL GO

I was greatly surprised that when logging on to spokesman.com/blogs/hbo Friday, there at the top was a ringing endorsement of my precinct committeeman campaign. Along with the very nice things said about me, was a photo of my campaign signs which I had shared with Dave Oliveria, moderator of the blog.

Aside from an ex wife or two, I seem to be gathering some momentum here. You may ask, why such a big deal over a bottom rung office of precinct committee person? Here's why. The 70 precincts in Kootenai County form as a group called the Kootenai County Central Committee. Since four years ago, reasonable republicans, or traditional if you wish, were bushwhacked.

A large contingent of the members of both Libertarian and Constitutional party members, realizing that they were in the minority by a bunch, invaded Kootenai County, entered the precinct races pretty  much unopposed,  then re-registered as Republicans. Kind of like the wolf in sheep's clothing of nursery rhymes fame.

The central committee had successfully been invaded and occupied. Some of their issues are, repeal of the 17th amendment to the U.S Constitution. This is to reverse a citizen's right to vote directly for U.S. Senator. The good old boys in the state legislature want to take that right back that was only popular in early days of our country because of ancient travel and communications problems.

Then there is Nullification. Don't recognize the term? Nullification is what the south fought the civil war over. The right of a state to overrule the federal government. Actually we already have the right to self rule in those areas that the states haven't ceded their authority to the feds.

These are state and county candidates for office, not for the U.S. house or senate. While being paid to do the state or county business, they are tilting at windmills in a way not seen for over 100 years. Wasting the public's time on issues they cannot win. These are what I sometimes refer to as Wackos. People who have lost track of reality.

There are other issues, but this one is why I am seriously running for precinct committeeman along with a ground swell of traditional party members that want to reclaim their party. I'll have more as we approach the all important closed Republican primary, which is another issue.

If you still think you don't make a difference then this is what your legacy will be.

BLANCHE JONES, R.I.P.

I read her obituary today and just didn't see Mom there. I called her Mom, but she was actually the mother of Ralph Jones, owner of Ralph's Coffee House and Eatery in Bayview, Idaho. Since she moved to Bayview from her prior home in California she has been a fixture in Bayview.

She loved to gamble at the Coeur d'Alene Casino, watch Mariner games and just hang out at Ralph's. She hit a jackpot for several hundred dollars just days before she was felled by Pneumonia, and went quickly with her family at her side. Just three days previously she was holding court at Ralph's Café.

People that didn't know her would be in a world of hurt if they spoke ill of son Ralph when she was present. They were either very brave or very foolish. Mom was extremely loyal and in addition to being Ralph's Mom was was also his best friend and cheer leader. In her mind Ralph could do anything.  She was usually right.

Mom died at a ripe age of 90 years old.  She smoked incessantly throughout her life, but it never affected her health until of course the end. Blanche will be carried home to California by her son Ralph later this week where she will spend eternity next to her husband Bryon who died in 1984.

Up until I first met Blanche I never called anyone Mom but my own. Somehow it just seemed natural. Mom, you will be missed by many.

HANK AARON & THE KKK

Yesterday's declaration that those in the GOP are all KKK members or sympathizers was a sorry end to a great athlete's career. How any objective person come up with this conclusion says litle about logical conclusions and perhaps more about dementia of an 80 year old.

I have been a fan of three great players, all of which played during my adult lifetime. Hammering Hank, Willie Mays and most of all, Jackie Robinson. They were/are all black. I have never thought about race when picking favorites. That he spun this frustration and bitterness, however deserved, does not do him as proud as the career he had under, yes, some terrible racial prejudice.

That many on Huckleberries chose to either spin it into another area, rather than objectively stayed on the issue, was  sad. I thought there were more sensible people on the blog than were observed.

I did not question his great career, nor his fight against racial prejudice. The point was, "are all Republicans that oppose President Obama members of KKK." That so many thought to dodge this in favor of shooting at the right is a testimony to the rank prejudice of the left against any beliefs other than theirs even to the extent of falsifying an issue.

I am a Republican. I am not a racist. I have never belonged to, or sympathized with the KKK. I dislike the president on his own lack of merit, not the color of his skin. This was the issue, not any other that some chose to spin. Disagree with me? Fine. Call me names? not fine.

Yesterday and today showed that there are more people that need to get a life than I ever thought before.

OUTRAGEOUS PC

The co-founder of Mozilla, a very successful internet  entity, Firefox was forced out of his position as Mozilla CEO. Brendan Eich who's imagination and tenacity made Firefox the nation's most popular internet window was forced out because six years ago, 2008, he donated $1000 to a political group that supported heterosexual marriage.

It was pointed out by a conservative wag tonight that even Obama in 2008 favored only a man and a woman as a legitimate marriage. This, fascist, lynch mob attack on an honorable man not because he didn't perform his duties properly, but because he fell to the groundswell of righteous same sex proponents of marriage.

I am not coming out in favor of banning any marriages between two consenting adults. (with a possible exception to marriages between brother and sister.) How about  the church of later day saints. Will they explore a return to poligamy? After all, the U.S. Government forced Utah to ban pluralistic marriages as the price of statehood.That principle is out the window for sure.

It isn't good enough for these people that won their fight for legality to just marry. Now they are hell bent for apparently outlawing the rest of us. Attitudes change, but in one generation we are throwing the baby out with the bathwater. What gave the liberal press and their ilk the right to essentially change everything that has gone before in order to achieve liberties that our founding fathers would have not even thought an issue.

Sudenly families don't matter, regigious people are being ridiculed and values no longer count. I would bet that a majority of homosexuals and lesbians would be aghast at the ouster of this inovater just because he donated money where his values lie.

The danger here isn't Mr. Eich's beliefs. It is that an entire civilization is teetering at the abyss, throwing out long standing values without a new road map to take it's place.  I am totally against, not persons of non-standard sexuality. I believe these folks were born this way and did not choose.  Having said that, they do not have a license for revolutionary war either. And is it they that did this, or was it the ultra-liberal mantra that pervades in silicon valley and the rest of that pit of  revolutionaries.

The sixties have caught up with us even more disruptively than we thought back then. The permissive attitude that ;prevailed carried on to parenthood, now nothing is sacred anymore. Not even the sacred.

Flight 370

The constant press coverage of the loss of flight 370 has kind of turned into a hysterical need for news. that the entire search is being held in ridicule due to the old "Calling Wolf," syndrome.

The coupling of diverse countries not used to coordinating, has made the search even more bizarre.

Finally, the hard news of the frequency of the pings from the flight recorders has everyone cautious.
The frequency of 37.5 is one that is not replicated in any other use. If the Chinese ship picked up the  signals from this place, it is a known factor, not a rumour. This frequency was chosen so that other radio influences and biologicals would not interfere.

The bottom line is how helpful the Chinese are in sharing specific coordinates. The world wide use of the satellite system of navigation is very precise. Triangulating signals should not be a problem, unless, the Chinese use this as a political tool. We have only 2 or 3 days before the batteries will have died.

We can only hope that the Chi-Coms do not have an unusual plan.

NIMBY

It seems that the neighborhood between Howard Road and Lone Moose Road, are up in arms over an attempt by Verizon to erect a cell tower. It seems that regardless of the need of others, these people are aghast that They might glance over and see the blinking lights on the tower.

Another issue is the proximity of an air field on Howard Road. The obvious danger to aircraft in the area is real.

What isn't, is the attitude of the cellular company. The residents of Bayview and other areas nearby are starving for cell service. Recent offers by both Bayview Sewer & Water District and land owner, Dick Hansen reveal a willingness to have such a tower on their land.

In the mean time, the Log B & B plus neighbors are still bleating over having a cell tower blend in with their trees. I see a smidgen of selfishness here, but hey, I live in Bayview.

KOOTENAI COUNTY CLERK

Jim Brannon is the Kootenai County Clerk, a position he was recently appointed to after the preceding clerk suddenly died. There are many sub-departments under the clerk but I am going to zero in on just one.

The county clerk is  in charge of elections. This position by it's very nature must be very neutral regarding candidacies. I have heard from several very reliable sources that Brannon is running for precinct committeeman and is also running for election to the office he was appointed to and now serves.

Perhaps the most egregious acts reported to me is that he is offering to walk precincts with precinct committeeman, in favor of what ever candidate he and the committeeman are in agreement with'

Another point is why is this elected official electioneering on county time?

I am ot sure about the legal issues,  not being an attorney, but I am slam dunk sure it is a moral one. If this man wants to be elected to this office, it would be real swell if he checked his moral compass. 

WE'VE LOST SOME GOOD ONES

It seems that the last dog days of winter finds the grim reaper ready and able.

We lost two huge citizens in the recent past. Not huge in size, but in stature.

First Lanny Spurlock, who was often referred to as Mayor for life in Athol, indeed was, since he died in office after nineteen years as mayor. He was a gentle common as an old shoe kind of guy. No big shot in him at all. He recognized the need for Athol to stay small due to the preponderance of  lower priced homes in the city. Folks that couldn't have kept their homes if they had to pay for sewers.

H stood firmly against expansion, knowing that the one place in the county that lower income people could live, was Athol. The septic  system they are on is at about capacity for today's rules.

When I first announced the Athol Daze parade, he dropped by to appoint me as announcer for life. He apparently thought I did a passable job, and he liked lifetime appointments. I'll be there again this Summer, in honor of Mayor for life, Lanny Spurlock, as long as I'm able and wanted.

The second was a tragedy, involving one of Coeur d'Alene's finest attorneys. He tried many cases that were high profile, such as rhe federal trial of Sheriff Frank Crnkovich. for racketeering. He was charged with ignoring gambling and prostitution in the County. Yes he did. Those vices were long a tradition in this mining community where the young single miners outnumbered the population's families. For over 100 years these things were woven into the fablic of Wallace life. In several cases, the madams donated to community causes. He was acquitted.

Sam Eismann, attorney was once a U.S. attorney, a state legislator and practiced law for almost 50 years as a criminal defense specialist. He was a boon to prison overcrowding. Sam died March 16 early in the morning of hypothermia and subsequent drowning, according to the Kootenai County Sheriff Department. Sam owned a float home in Bayview which he stayed in regularly and from which he drowned. He loved Lake Pend Oreille and the village of Bayview, and Bayview loved him back.

CAR REQUEST

With great pleasure, I can announce that the needy couple has obtained a car with the help of their church, family and others, including the seller.

Good will is definitely not dead yet. The margin was so close, that they had to get my help for gas so they could make it home.

PRECINCT COMMITTEEMAN (WOMAN)

Until I threw my hat into the ring, I didn't connect apathy with the radical slant of the Republican Central Committee. I now realize how they got control. Half the precincts didn't have candidates and voters wouldn't have recognized the name most likely anyway.

What happens is people either check the box for a person running unopposed, or skips it entirely. Here comes the good part. If a precinct doesn't have a committeeman, the Central Committee appoints one, ergo perpetual control of county politics.

I am running in precinct 4 opposing a man that I understand was appointed in that manner. Well, if the folks in Bayview want a more representative person they now have me on the ballot. I am what is sometimes called moderate, though compared of the old days I would be right in the middle of the traditional conservative position.

Now however, we have a power grab which happened not long ago, in which radicals from the far right such as Constitutionalists and  other anti-government groups.

I believe in property rights. The right of a property owner to not be down-zoned, killing value, nor the right to stay rural if the neighborhood wants it that way.    Sometime back there was a tremendous fight over Sanders Beach. The city wanted to steal it and the people across the street that had paid taxes on waterfront wanted to keep their ownership. Sounds logical, yet many progressives went along with this power grab. They even swore that the lake in front of Sanders Beach had a different high water point than the rest of the lake.

These are some of the abuses that government can use in the public interest without the property owner agreeing. This is just one of many issues that I will cover in this blog relating to my core beliefs. I believe a committeeman should represent the electorate, not control anyone.

Above all, even if you don't agree with me, participate. You will have a choice this spring in the May primary. Please support me.Here is a link to a previous blog post which was also published in the Coeur d'Alene Press.  http://bayviews.blogspot.com/2014/01/political-extremism.html

PLEASE HELP

I'm looking for just one generous soul that is in a position to gift a car to a young couple. Let me explain. There is a disabled young man that recently married his sweetheart, a woman that had given birth to a what is now a 2 year old.

This couple, burdened with a sick child, has no transportation. They are on foot, unable to take the child to a doctor, unable to shop for groceries, unable to work even part time, due to lack of a car.

There is always a person out there that has an older car, that has been replaced, only to reside in the driveway doing nobody any good. If you have such a vehicle and feel either through Christian Charity or just because you are good people, please contact me at: bayviewherb@gmail.com or by phone, 208-683-9107.

This young couple will be blessed, as you will be by passing forward your own good fortune to another, in a never ending circle of giving which actually benefits you more than them. I know. I gave away a car I didn't need to someone who did. I still feel good about doing that. So will you.