Race Results from the 1st week-end

Above: The ladies of the Bayview Community Council, laboring throughout the week-end, serving up delicious hot dogs and burgers to the hungry masses.Below: complete race returns other than the pro categories which were listed yesterday. More to come, starting Friday and lasting through Sunday, including the bike race through the hills to who knows where? The Crux & Crucible will be the featured race of the week-end, coming right through Bayview. Results below are unedited from Adventuresportsweek.com


***************** MEN RESULTS DUATHLON******************
XTERRA GAUNTLET TRIATHLON AND DUAL X DUATHLON
12/31/09
FARRAGUT STATE PARK- IDAHO


Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
1 250 Cody Helbling Coeurd'Alene ID 18 8:04 1:00 51:08 0:41 23:09 1:23:59.6
2 253 Craig Hamilton Spokane WA 34 6:26 1:06 58:29 0:15 26:52 1:33:05.5
3 259 ARNE MICHALSON HAYDEN ID 45 7:43 0:57 57:17 0:59 27:01 1:33:54.9
4 255 Trevor Pincock Spokane WA 33 8:10 1:26 57:00 1:35 26:40 1:34:49.4
5 264 Travis Hixon 17 7:41 1:20 56:56 0:58 29:17 1:36:09.0
6 252 benjamin steckman post falls ID 21 7:54 1:11 1:03:48 0:48 29:09 1:42:47.0
7 267 Urbaniali Rob Coeurd'Alene ID 45 8:28 1:07 58:57 1:19 33:25 1:43:13.6
8 257 Keith Vonachen Sagle ID 35 8:08 1:10 1:41:40 1:29 34:12 2:26:37.8


Place Bib Team Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
***************** RELAY TEAM RESULTS DUA ******************
XTERRA GAUNTLET TRIATHLON AND DUAL X DUATHLON
12/31/09
FARRAGUT STATE PARK- IDAHO


Place Bib Team Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
1 261 Hawkins 8:38 0:29 1:14:04 0:13 30:17 1:53:38.2
FEMALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 1 - 19
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
MALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 1 - 19
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
1 501 Peter Collier Wenatchee WA 16 18:40 2:01 57:07 1:18 29:20 1:48:22.8
2 518 Landen Becker 13 11:35 1:34 56:06 0:58 38:21 1:48:31.2
3 500 Dane Collier Wenatchee WA 14 24:54 2:06 1:14:43 2:07 37:27 2:21:15.7
FEMALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 20 - 24
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
MALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 20 - 24
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
FEMALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 25 - 29
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
MALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 25 - 29
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
1 517 Ben Pate SPOKANE WA 29 28:07 2:37 1:03:36 1:12 32:23 2:07:54.0
FEMALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 30 - 34
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
1 506 Marna Kagele Kenmore WA 34 20:44 2:57 1:15:50 1:12 40:35 2:21:14.7
2 505 Beth Diehl Seal Beach CA 31 30:14 3:35
The first half of the Xterra races held last weekend is in the books. We've next weekend to go yet. Here are the results. Note that many local names cropped up in the standings.

1:52:18 0:59 49:54 3:16:58.3
MALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 30 - 34
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
1 519 Paul Kiss 33 18:30 2:46 58:48 0:54 30:22 1:51:17.7
2 507 DANIEL MCGILL STEVENSON WA 34 30:50 5:08 1:18:58 4:25 46:56 2:46:15.3
3 504 Kevin Diehl Seal Beach CA 30 30:28 3:23 1:52:16 1:02 49:52 3:16:58.0
FEMALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 35 - 39
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
1 512 Andrea Wells Sagle ID 39 17:59 3:39 1:14:19 1:07 37:22 2:14:24.0
2 510 KARI FAGERNESS STEVENSON WA 35 22:18 3:27 1:21:53 2:17 42:20 2:32:13.1
MALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 35 - 39
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
1 509 David Dutro Rathdrum ID 39 20:54 2:20 57:48 1:05 29:24 1:51:28.3
2 508 Mark Augustyniewicz Kenmore WA 35 22:27 3:57 1:06:56 2:02 41:07 2:16:27.3
FEMALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 40 - 44
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
MALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 40 - 44
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
1 513 Jeffrey Johnson Seattle WA 40 16:14 2:43 59:03 1:06 32:20 1:51:24.0
FEMALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 45 - 49
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
MALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 45 - 49
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
FEMALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 50 - 54
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
MALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 50 - 54
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
1 515 Tom Clark Dalton Gardens ID 54 24:49 4:19 1:12:31 2:41 40:57 2:25:14.8
FEMALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 55 - 59
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
MALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 55 - 59
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
FEMALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 60 - 64
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
1 516 Carol Lyndell Colorado Springs CO 62 27:42 3:55 1:56:19 1:44 47:40 3:17:18.1
MALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 60 - 64
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
FEMALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 65 - 69
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
MALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 65 - 69
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
FEMALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 70 - 98
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
MALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 70 - 98
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
FEMALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 99 - 99
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
MALE AGE GROUP TRIATHLON: 99 - 99
Place Bib Name CityState Age Swim T1 Bike T2 Run Official
FEMALE AGE GROUP DUATHLON: 1 - 19
Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
1 251 Linnia Hawkins Sandpoint ID 18 8:15 0:47 1:13:08 0:25 37:05 1:59:38.2
MALE AGE GROUP DUATHLON: 1 - 19
Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
1 250 Cody Helbling Coeurd'Alene ID 18 8:04 1:00 51:08 0:41 23:09 1:23:59.6
2 264 Travis Hixon 17 7:41 1:20 56:56 0:58 29:17 1:36:09.0
FEMALE AGE GROUP DUATHLON: 20 - 24
Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
MALE AGE GROUP DUATHLON: 20 - 14
Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
FEMALE AGE GROUP DUATHLON: 25 - 29
Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
MALE AGE GROUP DUATHLON: 25 - 29
Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
FEMALE AGE GROUP DUATHLON: 30 - 34
Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
1 254 Dawn Chamberlain Wallowa OR 30 8:43 1:08 1:03:32 0:57 35:22 1:49:39.4
MALE AGE GROUP DUATHLON: 30 - 34
Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
1 253 Craig Hamilton Spokane WA 34 6:26 1:06 58:29 0:15 26:52 1:33:05.5
2 255 Trevor Pincock Spokane WA 33 8:10 1:26 57:00 1:35 26:40 1:34:49.4
FEMALE AGE GROUP DUATHLON: 35 - 39
Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
MALE AGE GROUP DUATHLON: 35 - 39
Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
1 257 Keith Vonachen Sagle ID 35 8:08 1:10 1:41:40 1:29 34:12 2:26:37.8
FEMALE AGE GROUP DUATHLON: 40 - 44
Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
1 266 Maria Bertagnolli 43 7:57 0:27 1:00:05 0:25 32:38 1:41:29.4
2 263 Kathy Watts 40 10:53 0:39 1:24:35 0:52 38:29 2:15:25.3
MALE AGE GROUP DUATHLON: 40 - 44
Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
FEMALE AGE GROUP DUATHLON: 45 - 49
Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
1 265 Cathy Compton 45 7:40 1:26 1:03:01 1:25 30:23 1:43:52.4
2 260 Donna Rosenberg Kirkland WA 45 10:52 0:59 1:14:06 0:50 41:05 2:07:50.0
3 262 Debbie Nadeau 45 11:20 0:53 1:28:40 0:52 56:00 2:37:43.1
MALE AGE GROUP DUATHLON: 45 - 49
Place Bib Name CityState Age Run1 T1 Bike T2 Run2 Official
1 259 ARNE MICHALSON HAYDEN ID 45 7:43 0:57 57:17 0:59 27:01 1:33:54.9
2 267 Urbaniali Rob Coeurd'Alene ID 45 8:28 1:07 58:57 1:19 33:25 1:43:13.6

Adventure Sports Week

The first half of Adventure Sports Week is in the books. This event is very similar to Ironman, but without the publicity. International Triathlon contestants gathered at Farragut State Park for this extravaganza. When it's all over, at the end of next week-end, 24 races will have been held.

This the first year that this event has been held at Farragut, and confusion reigned. While the races themselves went off just fine, nobody seemed to know or care about the publicity angle. Advance notice of what, when and where were missing, making it very difficult to cover the events. I attempted to do so, and caught some piecemeal information that doesn't begin to describe this week long event.

Saturday started off with one of the featured races, a triathlon, involving a 1500 meter swim, then a run up a very steep slope to the Sunrise Campground, the start finish line for all events. Quickly shucking the wet suits, they hopped on their mountain bikes for an 18 mile ride. Several of the entrants were international professionals that will be seen again at Ironman in Couer d'Alene, also in Idaho.

To illustrate how competitive these races are, three time world champion triathlon leader, Conrad Stoltz of South Africa, placed 5th in this race. Perhaps the most amazing entrant though, was Megan Fisher. Megan is a medical student at the University of Montana. Her goal is to become an Orthopedic Surgeon. Observed climbing the treacherous sledding hill that comes up out of the big ampitheater. She sccoted up and out of that part of the course way ahead of some of the men. The surprise though, was that she does it with only one leg.

Fisher was in a serious auto accident when she was 19 years old. The result was the loss of her left leg. fitted with a prosthetic limb, she started training just 11 months after her ordeal. She ran Maui last year, winning the disability division. Results have been spotty and undecipherable to this non-triathlon person, but I believe she won her division again this year. This is the 6th year since the accident and she appeared to be doing very well.

A persistent rumor that was repeated to me by one of the race officials was that a boy under the minimum age, lied his age and participated with a $10 bike bought at a garage sale. This against professionals that some spend up to $10,000 for their racing bikes. He apparently has swam the long bridge race several times, but had never raced a mountain bike competitively. While he didn't win the race, the pro's were astounded that he finished, and did so on a Husky brand cheap bike.

Several contestants informed me that the swim portion at the beginning was real tough, with the wind blowing hard, into Idlewild Bay, causing severe chop, but all contestants made it to shore, including the gutsy young lady, now age 25, from Montana.

Results are in for the pro segment of the Saturday triathlon as follows:

Here are all the winners of the pro division as well:

Pl Name Age Hometown Time Pts Purse
1 Dan Hugo 23 Stellenbosch, South Africa 2:25:32 100 $1,800
2 Nico Lebrun 35 Digne, France 2:29:38 90 $1,250
3 Seth Wealing 30 Boulder, Colorado 2:31:20 82 $800
4 Branden Rakita 28 Manitou Springs, Colorado 2:33:19 75 $500
5 Conrad Stoltz 35 Stellenbosch, South Africa 2:34:03 69 $400
6 Craig Evans 31 Spring Hill, Tennessee 2:36:13 63 $300
7 Ryan Ignatz 30 Boulder, Colorado 2:36:20 58 $200
8 Jasper Blake 35 Victoria, B.C., Canada 2:37:42 53
9 Cody Waite 30 Lakewood, Colorado 2:38:16 49
10 Brendan Halpin 25 Missoula, Montana 2:40:29 45
Also: Will Kelsay (41), Adam Jensen (37), Matt Boobar (34), Jeff Smith (31)
TOP 10 PRO WOMEN

Pl Name Age Hometown Time Pts Purse
1 Melanie McQuaid 35 Victoria, B.C., Canada 2:51:10 100 $1,800
2 Danelle Kabush 34 Canmore, Alberta, Canada 2:52:50 90 $1,250
3 Christine Jeffrey 36 Guelph, Ontario, Canada 2:55:46 82 $800
4 Jenny Tobin 39 Boise, Idaho 2:57:53 75 $500
5 Emma Garrard 27 Truckee, California 2:59:05 69 $400
6 Rebecca Dussault 28 Crested Butte, Colorado 3:05:22 63 $300
7 Tracy Thelen 29 Colorado Springs, Colorado 3:07:21 58 $200
8 Erin Kummer 24 Boulder, Colorado 3:11:27 53
9 Alexendra Borrelly 33 Digne, France 3:13:27 49
10 Jennifer Luebke 23 Missoula, Montana 3:14:54 45
Also: Jari Kirkland (41)

Adventure Sports Week

This extravaganza that comes just a couple of weeks before Ironman in Coeur d'Alene, kicked off today with the Gauntlet. A short course Triathlon, (short, my ass, the bike ride alone would have killed me)Began on the beach below the starting point at, Sunrise Picnic grounds.

The short course triatholon began with a long swim against a persistant chop due to the wind whistling into Idlewild Bay. Somehow, all of the swimmers survived, but just in time to race up a steep path, peeling off their wetsuits, preparatory to grabbing their bike and heading out for a twice around course equaling 18 miles, thence back to the start finish line, where we understand they were further abused.

After taking a few pictures at the end of the swim and start of the bike portion, I headed out for the top of the Big amphitheater, commonly referred to as the sledding hill, locally. There, realizing they were short one traffic controller, I acted as a spotter for the flagger. In the process, I met some very interesting folks. One lady contestant, was wearing a prosthetic left leg, and wasn't doing too bad. Actually she was leading many other riders, including many men.

Which brings me to my next point. No logic that I could find, identified those that should have led, opposed to those that should have been far behind. I saw elderly women leading men, young women kicking ass on the guys their own age, there didn't seem to be any rhyme or reason to the standings as I saw them, other that I would have been dead halfway through the race. The organizers were a little disorganized, I didn't get the press packet I was promised, and I, at this time do not have winners, or for that matter, any other names to share. I will attempt to fix that tomorrow.

Timberlake Fire Busy

Yesterday, Thursday, June 4, a fire broke out above the gated community at the end of Cape Horn, on Glacier Loop. Fortunately, the fire was located on a rough steep slope above the last houses on the hillside.

Approximately 2 acres burned, according to Chief Krill, of the Timberlake Fire District. When the department got to the site, they noted the fire was burning in two different, but adjacent spots, which was noted as a suspicious situation. No firm evidence had surfaced as to the actual cause, at the time the fire district retired from the scene.

Idaho department of Lands was called in, since the fire was burning on public lands. They cut a fire line around the location to prevent the blaze from starting up again.

An interesting breakdown in communications, caused a delay last Saturday. A report was received from Bonner county Dispatch, of a serious burn case in Lakeview, which is located due east of Bayview, across the south end of Lake Pend Oreille. A propane explosion had caused a man to experience burns over 30% of his body and face.

Timberlake fire District, which is located in Kootenai county, has the responsibility for Lakeview and the west shore, up to Maiden Rock, in Bonner County. With the fire district caught between two jurisdictions, confusion sometimes occurs. In this case, the response was sent to Bunco road, which would have taken an hour to get to Lakeview overland. Its was then changed to a boat rescue with the land transportation furnished by the Happy Hermit. When the EMS crew reached the patient, it was determined that a helicopter rescue was needed. Bonner county failed to respond.The request was then relayed to Kootenai County Dispatch, who then sent Med Star. The patient was rescued successfully, but with multiple delays. In burn cases such as this, enormous pain usually is experienced.

We must remember, that when it appears that the fire department is running in circles, they are being controlled by a dispatch center and though they are the ones that may look foolish, it's not them, folks. It has been made very clear, through their actions in emergencies, that they have performed magnificently in recent fire and other emergencies. It is the coordination between the two counties that needs to be studied for improvements are needed to prevent the inevitable lose of life, due to the various jurisdictions crossing up the smooth flow of the responders.

Euphemisms (Spin Control)

As I sit in mourning for old fashioned journalism, I ponder what has happened in the last few years. News has become show business, both in the print media and television, mostly but not all, in the TV industry.

For the last week, we have been reading about the upcoming bankruptcy of Chrysler and General Motors.In the case of General Motors, the plan is for the, "Tax Payers" to own 70 % of GM. This is where spin comes in. First, I as a tax payer will not own any of either corporation. The U.S. Government will. It was tax payers that originally owned both. When GM comes out of bankruptcy, those taxpayers that used to own this huge company, will be stuck with worthless stock certificates.

In the old days of news reporting, this dodge, (no pun intended) would have not been thinkable. Some ask why didn't the company and the US government act sooner, like a year ago? The simple truth is that we, the public have short memories. In the case of the so called recession, most active young people, and even many middle aged, have never experienced a serious downturn in the over all economy.

Sure, logging and mining, here in North Idaho have seen serious slumps and in many cases, especially logging, these large, labor intensive businesses are gone. One such mill is now the Resort Golf Course. Others, lined the Spokane river, from the north end of Lake Coeur d'Alene, to Post falls. Now, just the forlorn pilings south of the Hwy 95 bridge, stand sentinel as the vacant log booms of yesterday are long gone.

To put this all in perspective, General Motors is 100 years old.That means that they were an automotive manufacturer since 1909, which eclipses the great depression. Our fearless leaders, not wanting a general panic, as happened in 1929 and the subsequent depression which was mostly lack of confidence in our ability to come back, lasted another 8 years or more. This is why GM wasn't forced into bankruptcy a year ago.

The spin, is by definition, a statement of fact that tends to hint at something other than bare truth. It is time for the news industry to stop playing Patsy with the government and admit that when this is all over, the US government will have taken over most of our privately held heavy industry as well as a large chunk of the finance sector. At the end of the day, if this isn't stopped, we'll be more socialist than Russia.

Let's look at the alternative. If GM had just gone bankrupt, new owners would have popped up, bought the business from the courts and started over. Maybe GM gobbled up two many smaller car companies and got too large. Don't forget that names like: Chevrolet, Cadillac, Plymouth, Dodge, Buick, Oldsmobile, Chrysler,Willy's, the maker of jeeps, were not just model names. These were separate car manufacturers that were gobbled up by what is now General Motors,and Chrysler, which will exist no more than one month from now. A new company will sprout from the old, run principally by the government, not stockholders. How many of you think that government can run a business better than private enterprise. In the coming years, look for the Supreme Court to be very, very busy.

Thieves & Other Scumbags

Below the surface of this beautiful community, lies an underworld of Meth addicts and other lesser human beings. Many of these people cannot support their habits with legitimate jobs, so they take from others that have earned their possessions.

Such was the case either late Monday night, or very early, Tuesday morning. A young teen owned a 13 foot trampoline that was set up in her back yard. Thieves slithered into the yard and lifted the whole thing out, intact and made off with it. I want that property to be returned now! It would seem to be somewhat difficult to hide a trampoline for very long. Please keep your eye out for a neighbor or someone you know that suddenly acquired one in the last few days. Anonymous tips can either be e-mailed to me, left as a comment on this blog, or phoned to me at 683-9107.

If the person who did this regrets the act, just tip me as to where I might find it, and we'll call it square. If someone knows who did it, please give me the address where it can be found.

On the subject of scumbags, it appears that a boat sunk at it's moorage at the Captain's Wheel last night, was sabotaged. The sunken boat was discovered around 10:00 am by restaurant personnel. According to knowledgeable accounts, the drain plug was removed, and the bilge pump disabled by taping it so that it couldn't operate.

More Fund Raising Events

Last week I wrote about the $500 check presented to the ABC food Bank in Athol. What I failed to do, is point out that much, if not most fund raising comes from yard sales and a lot of hard work by many dedicated people. The following is the full press release sent o me by the sponsors:

ABC Food Bank in Athol representing the group’s continued commitment to the local food bank and other community needs. Last October dedicated Council volunteers canvassed the entire Bayview area in a door-to-door campaign and collected over 1200 pounds of food as well as more than $200 in cash. Various fund raising activities make these donations possible. On Saturday, May 23, 2009, during Memorial Weekend, the Community Council will host a gigantic yard sale in conjunction with the BAB Women’s Club. The two groups are asking residents to clear out their homes and garages looking for items to donate to the sale. They are accepting anything except clothing. Call 683-4027 or 683-3468 for directions to the drop off site. Pick ups can be arranged. The sale runs from 8 AM until 2 PM at the Bayview Community Center. Food will be available.

I slipped up and didn't publicize the new yard sale going on this coming Memorial Day Week-end.

Captain's Wheel Robbed

Late Sunday night or early Monday morning, the Captain's Wheel was burglarized. According to manager, Marie Streater, around $1000 was stolen. The day till, night till and one for the next morning were in a locked room, not a safe. It is anticipated that a more secure place will be found to store money in transit.

In other news, the Patio at Boileau's is up and running, sort of. Scott & Jeanne Bjerge, the 2009 operators expect the bar to be fully functional by this week-end, with perhaps another week until the kitchen is full restored. The hold up in the kitchen is back orders on equipment have held them up. At any rate, Memorial Day week-end will find the Patio fully functional, since the Icon was torched back on March 20.Just 64 days have gone by since it was destroyed, with the first week bound up in permitting followed by the destruction and hauling away of the remnants of the once proud little building.

The Week In Review

A whole bunch of stuff went down last week. Bridget Cripe saving the life of a 2 1/2 year old, that if left alone much longer, would have met darkness and probable death by hypothermia. The child had wandered from the end of Bunco road to the middle of Twete road, at least two miles and probably with winding around obstacles, more like three. That was rough country for an adult to hike, not just a toddler. good thing he was North Idaho bred and raised. We grow 'em tough around here. Cooper Irwin is and will be the measure that we will grade other small children in our area. Not only Bridget is a heroine, but Cooper hung in there until help arrived, to also be a hero in his own survival.

Then there are the Annuals. A loose group of party animals that congregate at the captain's wheel, having done so for the 26th year. When I use the term loose, it has more than the usual meaning. They started arriving Thursday afternoon. Leaving Sunday, only the bar employees are aware of all the hijinks, since your faithful reporter seeks bed before the real action starts. Still, we had a great time. The weather warmed up for an excellent Saturday out doors at the lawn party area east of the restaurant. As usual, Bayview is never quite the same when they leave. One unfortunate, a second generation Annual, failed to meter his alcohol intake, leaving hisself open to some rather imaginative drawings with a marking pen. further description is out of the question, since there might be civilized folks reading this.

The Annuals Strike Again

Tis that time of year again. When the daffodils bloom, Summer is but a dream and the annuals hit town. A tradition born 26 years ago by a small group of men, some even before they settled down into marriage and families. As the years went by, it became a tradition that the week-end before Memorial Day, they gather at the Captain's wheel Restaurant for a week-end of revelry. Since they have branched out into golf tournaments and other more mature stuff.

As the years went by, the group morphed into a larger bunch. This year, formal invites didn't get mailed out, but that didn't stop the core group. These days, the sons of the originators are attending too. We have no information on what the wives do during this four day event and we are looking for a snitch that will inform on them. Currently, the guys are scarfing down dinner and heading into what always turns out to be a week-end to remember.

The weather isn't great today, but by Saturday, Summer is expected to break out, at least temporarily. The tomatoes are going out regardless. Bayview always welcomes the annuals. They are a great bunch of guys and some of them are real characters. For those annuals that were waiting for formal invites, hey, there here, come join them. Above, is a picture of the annuals holding forth on a much warmer day, last year. Lacy, a bartender last year, entertains the guys, and Wow! Is she entertaining, or what!

A 2 1/2-year-old Coeur d’Alene boy was the subject of a major search in the wooded area at the end of Bunco Road in northern Kootenai County. Cooper Irwin, the son of Kevin and Holly Irwin, has been missing since about 1:45 p.m. from a farm house at the end of Bunco Road, where his family was visiting relatives. The boy was reported missing a half hour later. Area residents began looking for him immediately. The search has expanded to include rescuers from the sheriff’s office, Timberlake Fire District, a helicopter from Spokane, and a canine unit. The boy was described by sheriff’s spokeswoman Kim Edmondson as wearing blue sweat pants with red-and-white stripes, a blue flannel shirt over a white T-shirt and brown shoes with red socks. He is not dressed for the weather. (excerpt from KCSD bulletin, updated)

A little after 5:00 pm today, Bridget Cripe, was heading east on Twete Road toward her parent's house, Steve and Monnie Cripe. She encountered a small child, muddy, disheveled, carrying one shoe, the other lost somewhere in the mud. She slamed on the brakes and picked up the child, who was cold, wet and totally lost. Asked his name, he said," I'm Cooper." Still, this 2 1/2 year old had plodded on in the certainty that he would find his parents just around the next turn. Checking with nearby homes didn't turn up any knowledge of where the child had originated, so Bridget called 911. Behold, they had been looking for the small boy for over three hours.

That Bridget Cripe rescued the child wasn't a surprise, but for the youngster to have walked through the woods from Bunco to Twete Road, approximately two miles, and perhaps more, in the time he was gone showed a great deal of determination, but then after all, this tough young man is a North Idahoan.

Blogs Carry World Wide Consequenses

The Internet, while opening up the entire world to opinion, news, and human interest stories, also carry unintended consequences. Most Bloggers actually carry more international readers than do U.S. Newspapers, primarily due to the unavailability of the latter.

I sometimes wonder who is reading my blog. I have a site counter that you can find at the bottom of the Bayviews page. click on that and you can read the numbers, as well as tell where the hits come from. I hadn't done that for a few months, but today I did.

In addition to getting hits from every state in the union, I received in the last 100 visits, hits from Korea, Denmark, China, and two from the United Kingdom. I average, not counting week-ends which are reader poor, about 88 visits per day and about 95 to 100 page views. I also have readers from Germany, Poland, Serbia, Australia, New Zealand, France, Russia and many other smaller countries.

Our little corner of the blogisphere is seen in many more places than one would imagine. While folks argue over political points that aren't going to change any minds, the world is watching and listening. Many in other countries believe the crap that is exhibited on these pages, represent Majority Middle America, and may even create the thought that the government has lost control, and the people are about to revolt. Remember, we are a window to the world, not just to North/south Idaho plus Spokane. Other countries that do not have democracy, which counts rather high, may read the signals all wrong. In many countries, arguing with the countries leaders is a fast way to imprisonment. Just a thought from an old goat.

More Blessed To Give Than Receive

That seems to be the motto of many members of the Bayview Community Council and BABS, which stands for Bayview, Athol,Belmont. These are a group of ladies that spend much of their time doing things for others.

Last summer's gigantic yard sale sponsored by both groups, plus raffles, the traditional lemonade stand at the Bayview daze street fair, 50/50 raffles, Octoberfest, are all fund raisers. These funds are always used for charitable purposes. Today, found BCC Treasurer, Bob Moore, presenting a check to the ABC Food Bank, which covers Athol,Bayview, Careywood, and other surrounding areas.

Many people donate food and money during the fall and winter holiday season, but with logging and the mills shut down, plus layoffs in other businesses, more people are in need than ever before. The food bank is located in the Athol community Center. The food bank's phone number is 683-2101. Donations may be dropped off at the community Center, or mailed to ABC Food Bank, P.O. box 416, Athol, ID 83801

Sometimes It's So Pretty It's Hurts

This is a picture that I took at about 7:55 pm from my porch in Bayview. The sun had been shining through between dark foreboding Thunder Bumpers.

Lakeview ATV Accident

At 12:20 PM on Saturday, May 2, 2009, the Timberlake Fire Protection District responded to an ATV accident on Lakeview Road near the Forest Service 278 road intersection. The ATV operator went off a steep embankment and landed approximately 100 feet below against a tree. Bystanders on scene provided patient care until emergency responders arrived. Timberlake Fire personnel were in cell phone contact with the scene to provide patient care instructions. The patient was not wearing a helmet - we encourage all ATV operators to wear a helmet and other protective equipment.

We responded by land, sea, and air. Timberlake Ambulance EMS 61, Chief 601, and Lieutenant 612 responded from the Bunco Trailhead across the recently plowed forest service roads. Medstar was launched and landed 1/4 mile from the patient. Timberlake Fire Boat 695 responded from Bayview with a paramedic from Northern Lakes. Other ATV operators provided transportation for responders from the boat and helicopter. All responders arrived within about 10 minutes of each other at approximately 1:30 PM. The patient was loaded into EMS 61 and transported to Medstar who then transported the patient to Kootenai Medical Center.
Story and photos courtesy of Timberlake Fire District, Jack Krill, Chief.

Late information has the victim as a woman without life threatening injuries. ... This time. Attention might be paid to the issue of helmets, as she wasn't wearing one. I wouldn't want to meet up with a tree at full speed without one. The next time might be a fatality.

Armageddon Maybe? Nah!

The subject of a lively discussion this afternoon, was that of the flood of Snowbirds heading North at this time of year, and when you consider the places they Wintered, Texas, Arizona, New Mexico So. California, one wonders what, besides souvenirs, they brought with them.

On the other hand, (sound like a one-armed paper hanger, don't I) When the press isn't busy with Armageddon type statements, guesses and such, It has been pointed out that the Swine Flu went through here about thirty years ago. Back in the sixties, it was the Hong Kong Flu. There have been cyclical flu epidemics since time began.

It is, however, noteworthy that the WHO and in this country, CDC are worried. Not about a few dozen deaths. that happens regardless of what precautions are taken. No, they are worried because this one caught them napping. It came out of the blue without warning and from a country, Mexico, that has less than stellar Health Care. This, if for no other reason should give cause to the notion that socialization of medical care is the answer to all problems. In the back of their minds, is the inevitable pandemic that everyone is talking about. Right now, we have no pandemic, just like all seasons, the threat of one someday.

It has also been pointed out that several hundred fatalities per year take place during Flu season with the seasonal varieties, which seem to be ignored these days. Could it be that the MSM needed a new fight song? A study by the CDC in 2003 established that about 36,000 people in the United States, die each year from seasonal flu varieties. That kind of puts a different perspective to the problem.

I don't know whether this will work, but I invite doctors from England and Canada to respond to the question, "Is socialized medicine better than not." One hears stories about months wait for elective surgery and even scarier stories. You may, of course use aliases if your comments might create problems with your employment.

Bayview Springs Forward

Not waiting around for good things to happen in the jobs market, Bayview Water & Sewer District is donating land for a community garden. Residents are urged to donate seeds, plants for setting out later, and above all, your labor. Seeds and plants can be dropped off at the Bayview Mercantile. Write your name on the donations which will then make you eligible to share in the product grown. Questions can be directed to Linda Williams, Secretary at the Water & Sewer Department at her home number. 683-4020. Knife River donated the top soil and equipment donated by H & E Equipment Rental. Step up, folks.

The Bayview Community Council has collected in excess of $500 dollars recently for the Athol, Bayview, Careywood Food Bank. Last fall, 1200 pounds of food was donated, along with $200 cash. This time of year is tough on the food banks, since most people think about giving around the holidays, then stop thinking about it. With unemployment at a level not seen for decades, if not our entire lifetimes,more people are going to need our help than ever before.

(Hayden, ID)—Kootenai Humane Society and Petco of Coeur d’Alene will host Pet Adoptathon 2009 on Saturday and Sunday, May 2-3, 11am-3pm, in the Petco Parking Lot. The event will feature animals from KHS and area rescue groups. Participants will be able to see and familiarize themselves with a wide range of animals from purebreds to mixed breeds and learn about many of the area rescue groups’ efforts. In addition to KHS and area rescue group’s animals and displays, the event will feature a Pet Kissing Booth. (Hat tip to Cindy Post Grandy)

Timberlake Fire District has been busy putting out fires this Spring, and after a long absence, the Bayview Station will be manned. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Fire permits can be obtained on those days as well as other fire safety information will be available. To get pictures and stories on recent fires, go to: www.timberlakefire.com/

The return of Liz & Larry Justus returning from Wellton, Arizona, marks the reopening of Lakeland RV Park, adjacent to the Bayview Post Office. Many eople come back every year, so if a reservation is needed, act quickly. With the Boileau's RV park turning into a parking lot and the old Bayview Trailer Park being closed, RV parking is almost extinct. Lakeland R.V. can be reached at:683-4108.

The Patio @ Boileau's

As the Phoenix rose from the ashes, so has the patio. Having been burned to a total loss, the structure was torn down to the flotation.Only seventeen years old, the previous structure was, as most know, burned down by the hand of an arsonist. Rumors have a disgruntled former Waterford Park employee as the culprit. Unfortunately, there are so many of those, that the winnowing process could take a while.

Scott & Jeannie Bjerge, owners of the Bayview Mercantile were days from signing a lease/purchase agreement to run the patio when someone broke in and caused a fire that destroyed the place. Almost immediately, pending insurance claims adjustment, along with the inevitable permit process, the tearing down of the old and rebuilding the new started. At this point, the structure is up, wiring and plumbing inspected and approved and the interior yet to be finished along with appliances, sinks and such.

The annual fishing derby starts this week-end, and Scott will be on the gas dock at 6:00am for gassing up fishermen/women. Following the opening of the derby, Scott is hosting a gigantic barbecue on the dock Saturday, from 2-4 pm, May 2. There will be beverages available as well, for the other kind of gassing up. Join Scott & Jeanne for a rebirth celebration.

Since the rebuilding of the patio isn't a firm date, they are shooting for May 8, but are realistically thinking the week-end of Friday, May 15. Everyone in Bayview and beyond wish the Bjerge's well and will be on hand to wash the re-opening down. It is wished that a moment of silence for Leon Bergom, who died while rebuilding the patio, be observed while passing this icon.

In addition to MacDonald's Resort, the Captain's Wheel has been added as a weight station for the fishing derby, which starts Friday, May first through Sunday, May 3. Tickets are available at the Bayview Mercantile.

Breaking News

Stay tuned for a great story that I, hopefully will have by Sunday.

I spent all day at Dry Run day at Silverwood getting back in the saddle again, so to speak. My legs and feet are dead on arrival, but I had a great time. I look forward to seeing many of my loyal readers at the park this Summer. No, I won't be on the train this year. I'm a coaster boaster. See you there.

Season Openers

Many of Bayview businesses reduce hours or close for the winter. Terry's Cafe will open back up for 7 day service 7am to 3 pm except later on Tuesdays which feature the spaghetti dinners that have become a tradition. This will happen starting Friday, April 24.

The Buttonhook is open with limited hours until later this spring. Fridays and Saturdays only, with Bar hours from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm and food service starting at 5:00 pm.

The Captain's Wheel is back with seven day service as well, with hours: opening 11:00 am and food service 'till 8:00 pm,9:00 pm Friday & Saturday nights. which will become later as the season progresses. Sunday through Thursday a fish & chips special including a pint of beer for $6.00, or a soft drink for the kids. Starting May 9 Breakfast will be served Thursday through Sunday starting at 8:00 am.

Boileau's Floating Patio

Work continues on the rebuilding of the floating patio at Boileau's. As a tragic postscript to the arson caused fire that burned the structure, Leon Bergom, age 67, experienced a heart attack just after securing the last roof trusses, April 13. He and his family run a construction company that has done some work at Vista Bay Marina as well. Pausing only for a funeral, the family pitched in and are finishing this project in honor of the patriarch of the business.

As of this date, no arrests have been made, though it is widely known that there is a suspect at large. We will not name that person, since no arrest has been made, and no charges filed.

HOUSTON, WE HAVE LIFT OFF!

In other local news, Athol Elementary 5th graders staged a rocket exhibition Monday. The entire student body sat in a semi-circle watching as David Moon, fifth grade teacher, supervised the kids that built the rockets and fired them off themselves. All of the students had obviously been coached on safety and it showed. These rockets were powered by black powder cartridges that resembled a 12 gauge shotgun shell in size. When the rockets reached their apogee and started back down, little parachutes deployed. The wind picked up a little, so the the rockets had to be pointed back toward the street to allow for the parachutes to come down inside the school property. About four didn't make it, sailing into the trees at the north end of the play field.

He Meets Us In The Dark

This is a poem by my son, Brian, in the aftermath of their miscarriage. Brian and Jennifer, my son and daughter-in-law.

Empty.
A new twig on the tree
But no leaves budding,
Unfurling miniature fingers.
Spring has come,
But brittle branches
Stretch with barren stiffness
Poised for nothing?
This little limb meant more.
The ache of sap rises in my bones,
Leaks into tears, small sighs
For small deaths;
Not for what is,
But for what could have been.

Roots are for these days.
My wife and I delve deeply down
Dark and blind paths
Under earth, soul-roots thirsting
Seeking, crying for comfort
In half-finished prayers;
And before we are done
He meets us in the dark,
Wet with His tears
Shed on another tree,
Yes. He loves.
We drink sovereign stillness
And let our questions go,
Satisfied.

Susan Boyle

I was browsing through the news the other day, when I caught a whiff of this show in Great Brittan modeled after American Idol. I ran the You Tube tape and was blown over. Many have called Susan fat, some ugly, but what I saw was an ordinary person with extraordinary talent. At age 47, she claims to have never been kissed. She comes near me, that's going to change.

First, the lady is not fat. Secondly, she's not ugly. She is just plain, as most of us are. We all admire beauty, and those of us that can't claim it, envy those that can. For me, it's talent. Hell, I sing karaoke at age 71 and have fans, but I'm not pretty.

I do think in the case of Susan, that first I would like to publicly propose marriage. Listening to her sing around the house would pep up anyone's life. I think the contrast with her down to earth plain old having fun thing, not a bit of nervousness, it was that contrast with the beauty that was shown as she began the song. The hair stood up on the back of my neck and I found myself having to wipe my eyes when it was over.

It was all of us identifying with her as just a regular person and then having her bloom as a flower, right before us, as she was just being herself. Not a practiced star, just kind of like Popeye. The Scottish version of, " I yam what I yam.

It was fabulous entertainment, and contrasted with her unassuming attitude, just remarkable. I managed to find her singing
"Cry Me a River" as well. This lady is no longer unemployed and if my proposal reaches her, she will no longer be un-kissed. For those of you that have been living in a cave without any outside wordly news, I give you Susan Boyle. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY&feature=channel

Jackie Robinson # 42

It was 1955 during the world series. Dodgers Vs the Yanks. I was in my junior high school year. My study hall was in the afternoon, which meant that I had library during the games. The Librarian was Mrs. Cavelleto. Renton, Washington at that time was primarily Italian. Mrs. Caveletto ruled the library with a vengeance at Renton High School. ... Except during the world series. It seems that our librarian was from Brooklyn. Suddenly, if you were a Dodger fan, you could do no wrong.

Flash to the present:

Recently, in all of major league baseball celebrates the huge contributions that this star baseball, football and basketball star. One man, Dodger president,Walter O'Malley, made two revolutionary decisions. The first, was to cross the color line. there, in that time were some fantastic ball players in the "Negro" leagues. He brought up Jackie Robinson, to the jeers of all major league baseball. This guy, was perhaps the best all around ball player, but his real value was in taking crap from pretty much everyone, and coming out after a few years, as the most admired player of all time.

Back to the past:

1957, January. A guy I've not been able to find since, and I decided to explore New York City. If I remember correctly, his name was Donald Eggers. He was a tall skinny guy that was heading overseas at the same time I was. He was from Spokane, I was from Renton. Some of the adventures will go unnamed. But there were some great memories, too. Back then television was all live. They hadn't invented video recording yet. Don and I ambled up Times Square, like we owned it. We came to a television studio. It might have been CBS, or ABC, or even NBC. I don't remember.

We walked in and asked if we could visit. We were in uniform and were were extended the courtesy of the house. It was the Andy Williams Hour rehearsals. There were chorus girls and guys wrestling around in the lobby. We went into the main theater and there was Andy. But there was more. His guests were , I think, Pattie Paige, singer, and yes you guessed it, Jackie Robinson, formerly of the Brooklyn Dodgers. I was more awed than if I had just met the president of the United States. Somewhere in the house is a scrap of paper with Andy Williams' on one side and my hero, Jackie Robinson's autograph on the other.

Later, and I never found out how, MY Mom managed to get Jackie to send me birthday greetings while I was serving in Morocco. He was then, the Vice-President of a firm called, "Chock Full of Nuts." After I'm gone, someone will,if they don't throw everything out as trash, will unearth this little slip of paper torn off of God knows what, with Andy's signature on one side and my hero, Jackie on the other.

I grew up in a Renton, Washington suburb that had a few black people, but not many. I do remember that when my mom had to work, she brought in a black lady to cook dinner. she was pretty much an aunt Jemima stereotype, but oh Lordy could she cook. We never grew up with hatred about others. Sure, we recognized that some people were different, but we really never thought we were better.

Today, Major League Baseball celebrates the life and career of Jackie Robinson, perhaps the greatest human of them all. He didn't pontificate on television about all of the wrongs that happened in the 1800's, he just simply went out and proved them wrong.Every player in both leagues are wearing number 42 today. I just wish Jackie were here to see it, but then maybe he does. ...

Piracy Tolerated By Shippers

photo courtesy of the US Navy

Today, the day that Captain Phillips has been rescued, brings home some startling allegations. We all read, just a few days ago articles alleging that when civilian crews carry weapons on board, insurers raise the rates so high it is more profitable to pay ransom than the hiked premiums. This arrangement, almost a partnership with pirates, is an outrage, and an abomination. Where have our guts and principles gone?
John Reinhart, CEO of Maersk associated himself with Captain Phillips, citing him as an American hero.Phillips is, Reinhart, a guy that put his crew at risk of a few gold coins, isn't!

Thomas Jefferson made history when as president, he sent the navy under Stephen Decatur into Tripoli harbor to burn the captured ship, USS Philadelphia. Shortly thereafter, he ordered US Marines to invade. This brought an end to piracy against the United States, by the Barbary Coast Pirates. Our country was in it's infancy, but while Europe cowered, we refused to be bullied by international criminals. The Marine Hymm starts out, "From the Halls of Montezuma, to the shores of Tripoli."

During World War two, all merchant ships flying the American flag had a marine gun crew on board for the purpose of shelling attacking Subs and/or aircraft of the Axis. More recently, we re-flagged many ships that transited the Persian Gulf. That was due to Iran sinking ultra-large tankers, while cruising during the Iraq-Iran war.

Shippers that previously had re-flagged vessels in other countries to get around the requirements of American crew, soon were standing in line to get back under the flag.
This isn't just about money, insurance rates or other considerations. Putting American Merchant Mariners in jeopardy for the purpose of saving money isn't acceptable.

One of two things have to happen, and if our new president has any cojones, this would be the time to show them. Either the US government underwrites the insurance for our shippers, or we force the insurers to accept trained private security with adequate weapons to ship as crew, or we do like during WW11 and ship US Marines or Seals on each and every US flagged ship who's course brings it into waters known to be pirate havens. That would also include areas around Singapore and Malaysia. After a while, we wouldn't even have to cover every ship. The pirates, after being blown out of the water a few times, would find other ways to make a living.

It is also alleged that many ships and crews are still under capture in Somalian ports. Our Navy isn't busy fighting any wars, currently, send them in with cooperation from other countries navies and clean these vipers nests out. It is time to man up and take care of business. The United states of America used to be widely know as a country with which you didn't screw around with their citizens while they visited other nations. That no longer is true and hasn't been true for many years. It is time to draw a line in the sand. Piracy on the high seas has been an International crime for hundreds of years. It's enforcement time.

Bayview's Easter Egg Hunt

I am wrung out, rode hard and put away wet. Literally. Along with Marie Streater of the Captain's wheel and many wonderful volunteers we made the annual Easter egg hunt happen. For the first year since Terry Shepherd of Terry's Cafe started the Easter tradition, we were on our own. Somehow we bummbeled and fumbled through. I am exhausted. Not from buying supplies, though we did. Not from cooking the eggs. Not from coloring the eggs. Actually the Timberlake fire District sent down a bunch of fire fighters to help out, and help out they did.

No, the reason I am exhausted, is first, the egg cooking that was held at the Captain's Wheel. A party ensued. Then Friday, the egg coloring party. Then today's egg hunt, which consisted of Marie and myself dodging raindrops while scattering eggs. In more temperate climates, it would be called hiding eggs. Here, the grass just hasn't started it's race to mid-summer burnout. Finally, after the younger group mobbed the lawn outside of the Captain's wheel in a driving rain, the older kids flocked to the Bayview Motel and RV park where Norma Jean was gracious enough to allow us to use the grounds for the egg hunt. The rain finally stopped. Not in time for moi to escape being soaked, but for the 6-12 year olds.

Our kids are tough here in North Idaho, and a little rain doesn't faze them.Kudos for the firemen that helped out. It turned out that the guys from the fire district were the most innovative decorators of all. these guys can do anything, and they always do it well. We are fortunate to have the fine men and women of the Timberlake fire department, not just to put out fires, but are always present for community projects.

Both Athol and Bayview produce more community minded people than most have ever experienced. We had a great time and I understand that the egg hunt in Athol that occurred later in the day was a huge success. The kids did great, even though many were rained upon. But after all four or so days in preparation for the event, I'm wasted. More parties were held by the participating adults, than the kids it was all for. To all of those that helped, a huge thank you.For me, I'll sleep well tonight.

Overaged Easter Bunnies

Normally, when an Easter Bunny reaches a certain age, they are put out to pasture. Such is not the case with this year's crop. Most of the volunteers that have stepped up are either first time community bunnies, or in some cases, have never born children. Such is the spot I jumped into when a person was needed to coordinate things. Soon after taking the bull by the horns, the rest of the gang jumped in. There are, those, however that haven't dyed an egg in 50 years. I fall into that category.

Today we cooked about 10 dozen eggs, after having stuffed about four hundred plastic eggs with various goodies, a couple of days ago. Tomorrow, all volunteers, either already identified, or drop-ins are welcome. We'll meet at the Captain's Wheel Restaurant, where we will get in each others way, drink too much and generally have more fun that the kids will Saturday morning. The kids from toddler to five will meet at the Wheel at 10:00 am, followed by the older kids, 6-12 at the Bayview Motel and RV park, at 10:30 am. Us newbies will of course make a hash out of it, since forever, Terry shepherd has sponsored the egg program. But, you know what? the kids won't mind.

One of the more interesting things about having this as a community volunteer program, is that I truly believe that the adults putting this together, are having way more fun that the kids will Saturday. Getting everyone that wanted to involved was a great idea that didn't happen, It just occurred by accident. The Chamber of commerce is underwriting the program with the help of anonymous donors.

We hold the egg program on Saturday so that those families that want to attend Easter services can do both. It is, of course, important to remember the original purpose for Easter, being the day history has shown of the Resurrection of Jesus from the dead. We celebrate both ways, without denigrating either.

Those that want to help dye eggs can report to the Wheel at or around 1:30 pm Friday. As an additional treat, since Theresa so nicely complimented my potato salad that I used to make, that I tossed together a batch for those that come down to color eggs, or just hang around to drink and party.

When Common Sense Isn't Home

I just finished an article on Boating Safety with a history of marina and boat fires in the recent past. I left out some, like when the mail boat caught fire leaving the dock and the carrier drown. There just wasn't enough space to cover everything. also left out was the most recent fire at the Boileau's floating Patio, because it was deliberately set.

A new one came to light last Saturday. Noticing Timberlake fire chief, Jack Krill parked at Boileau's, I sauntered over to find out what was up. It turns out that a boat with two adult men and several small children was stranded out just off Cape Horn, in Lake Pend Oreille.

Chief Krill invited me to go along on the rescue/tow operation. We shortly thereafter learned that a Navy work boat passing by was towing them in to the public launch, where we met them. Asked what happened, the young man, who will go un-named, since embarrassing him beyond where he already is wouldn't be friendly told us this. "We launched from here, (public launch in Bayview) and idled out to where we could put the hammer down. I gave it full power and noticed that I couldn't achieve more than 45 mph." I asked well then, how fast does it usually go? He said,"it's got a 454 in it and will do 65 mph." He went on to say that he then shut the throttle down as he could tell something was wrong. When he shifted into neutral, the engine seized up.


I asked him, well, what was your oil pressure gauge reading when you started out? He replied, " oh, it wasn't working." He then asked me, "the engine wasn't burning oil, but it was pumping out the exhaust." I then gently suggested that perhaps his oil pressure gauge was working, and was showing zero because he didn't have any pressure at all. I went on to suggest that the most likely path oil can take to the exhaust is through or around the pistons, such as in rings collapsing from the heat, which gauge apparently wasn't monitored either. The moral of this story is:

We are out there on the water with people that run at 65 mph and the only gauge they monitor is the speedometer. This isn't an isolated story, I'm afraid we have many unqualified operators out there.Boating Safety classes are available through the Coast Guard Auxiliary,U.S. Power Squadrons and the Kootenai County Sheriff, marine division. Take advantage of them and please remember there is much more to boating safely than the throttle. If this young man had had the engine seize up at full throttle, he could have pitch-poled or buried the stern and lost the children that were with him, along with his own life. Lake Pend Oreille and for that matter, every other body of water can be fatally dangerous.

The football players that lost their lives off Florida, is another example of ignorant boating. First, they took a small boat out 30 miles. Second mistake was anchoring the boat at the bow when rough weather hit. When a wave lifted the stern, the bow couldn't lift with it and the boat flipped. They had life saving PFD's aboard but weren't wearing them. The only anchor usable safely in that instance would have been a sea anchor. That is where you tow a bucket or sleeve or even a heavy jacket behind the boat. That will allow you bow to always face into the wind. They didn't and it killed them.

Boating safety is easy to learn. Ignoring the rules can be the last thing you'll ever do. Chuck Waller and George Grandy are working up a plan to petition the Kootenai County Sheriff Department for the purpose of forming a water born search & rescue group. Anyone interested, should contact George at 683-1859 or Chuck at 683-2389. It would help if you have a boat in the water and accessible at all times.

Easter Weekend in Bayview

Events sometimes overcome inertia. This is one of those occasions. Terry Shepherd, of Terry's Cafe in Bayview, has for several years, put an Easter egg hunt on for the children of the surrounding area. She did this out of her own pocket, without a sponsorship. Usually spending $400 per Easter, she just doesn't have the bucks to spare this year. But wait there's more! Unable to repeat this year, what with her expansion to Spirit Lake, We, the rest of the community woke up to the fact that we might not have an Egg hunt this year. I found this unacceptable and took on the job coordinating the event.

I am, however, not the only one that will be working on this. After starting the ball rolling, pretty much everyone that I have talked to is willing to help.Marie at the Captain's Wheel will supervise the younger kids, with a yet to be named probably (Herb) doing the secondary older hunt. This event will tke place Saturday AM, not Easter Sunday.

Kids from birth to 5 years old will gather at 10:00 am at the Captain's Wheel, wile the other kids, 6-12 will point toward the Bayview Motel/apartments on Main Street at 10:30 We will avoid the year round RV's that are parked there, and do our egg hunt near the fence where the Bayview Daze show & shine usually takes place. We expect things to get a little loose, since Herb has not been an Easter Bunny for many years. We also suspect it won't matter to the kids at all. Come one, come all. anyone that wants to help color eggs, should gather at the Captain's Wheel around 1:00 pm Friday for egg coloring. We could also use help hiding the eggs Saturday Morning.Call me at 683-9107 or Marie at the Wheel 683-1903, or just show up a little before start time and Identify yourself as a volunteer.

Since rampant deer feeding has taken place again here on the north side of town, egg locations will depend on avoiding deer poop piles. They are all over the place. That shouldn't be a problem though. After all, we are country folk. Bring the kids down and prepare to enjoy. You can, of course, always stay in town for lunch at either the Captain's wheel or Ralph's. Do not, however, encourage the children to put small, dark,oval objects in their mouths.

April Fool's Day, Etc.

photo by Taryn

Just eight days ago, I had my seventy-first birthday. Asked if I was still chasing fast women, I replied, no, I'm reduced to chasing slow ones. My eyes are starting to light up when I see an older woman using a walker, but then desperation births strange methods. One of the most difficult things about getting older, is that one has no previous experience with the phenomenon. Most knowledge is based on previous experience. aging is something that sneaks up behind you, then announces that you are suddenly old. No warning at all. It just is.

April fool's day is a date that to me doesn't mean playing tricks on people. It is the anniversary, actually the ninth anniversary of the last cigarette that I smoked. Cold turkey, pure will power. I've had two imaginary relapses, where I dreamed that I lit up and woke up the next morning relieved that it hadn't really happened. They say that if you go ten years without smoking lungs will fully regenerate. So far, so good. I had a recent chest x-ray that came up clean.

With the snow mostly gone, I've taken up walking so that when the season starts at the theme park I'll be in shape to walk the required distances. Yes, I'm going back into the entertainment business. This time, not as the railroad conductor. I'll be rotating between three coasters. Timber Terror, Tremors and Aftershock. I hope I see many of you there. Attending local attractions such as theme parks and water parks beats the hell out of long trips away from home, expense wise.

I'll be announcing both Bayview Daze parades and the later one for Athol Days, which is the Centennial for Athol. Hopefully I'll see some of you at one or both celebrations.

Buttonhook Opens For The Season

The Buttonhook Restaurant will open April 10 at 4:00 pm, under new ownership. We are not releasing the name of the new owner, since permission hasn't been granted. In these situations, most participants do not want premature announcements made until the sale is signed and recorded. We understand that Steve will be back as well as Joni, the ever popular bartender. Stormy will be back also.Business is picking up with the approach (ever so slowly) of spring, and with the Captain's Wheel the only full service restaurant currently open, the 'Hook is needed for the onslaught of tourists soon to follow. Spring hours will be Friday and Saturday only from 4-10pm lounge and dinner from 5-9pm. Expanded hours will start with Memorial Day Weekend.

Speaking of the Captain's Wheel, they will go to seven day service beginning April 6. Spring dinner hours will be until 8pm and 9pm on Friday-Saturday nights.Already restaffed by returnees, your favorite waitress is probably back. The real start of the season, though, is the ever present Annuals. This loose group and I mean that both ways, has been returning to Farragut and the Wheel for the last 22 years. Second generation party animals have replaced those that have given up with age, though that number is small.But before that, live music starts at the Wheel Saturday nite, April 18. Ozmo Boogie will be featured, Always a huge favorite. They will also perform May 15 which is a Friday night. That is in honor of the Annuals.

As of now, Sunday dinner hours are back to 8 pm. From Mother's Day onward, additional expanded services and hours will commence. More on that later. No news on what Terry is going to do, having been closed except for Tuesdays, all winter. Ralph's Internet Cafe to plugging along with great additions to the menu and will be the only place for lunch along with the Captain's Wheel. He also is serving breakfasts which has been a great success. Ralph will deliver for large orders, too. 683-2218.

The snow has melted, most boats are still floating, temperatures are moderating. dust off the mold from sitting around all winter and come on down.

Patio Fire, Revisited

Information obtained off the record indicates that the fire at the Patio Restaurant was set by an arsonist. Fire chief Jack Krill in conjunction with the fire marshal has turned the investigation over to the Kootenai County sheriff Department. At this time there are no suspects. Rumors that the owners set a fire tend to be without merit since a new tenant was set to sign a lease to operate the premises for the coming tourist season. Ditto for the tenants of the dock, since that would be akin to sitting on a limb, while sawing it off behind you.

From under some rock, a probability exists that a former employee of Waterford Park Homes, L.L.C. has tipped over,or that a long time boat slip renter freaked out after losing their ability to pay.

It should go without saying that many people, both floathome owners and boat slip renters have experienced steep rate increases. We will not speculate about the cause, simply because there is no obvious reason someone would do such a thing.

The fire that destroyed the patio at Boileau's last week has been determined to be Arson. Results of the investigation by the Timberlake Fire District and the fire marshal have been referred to the Kootenai County Sheriff Department for investigation. The apparent indication of accelerants at the fire location and the proximity of the building behind the patio with stairs and access to the balcony over looking the cafe is where the fire burned the hottest.

On the surface of the issue, no immediate suspects surfaced, yet one source that is a respectable witness, tells us that they know who did it and have reported it to the proper authorities. Chief Jack Krill made this statement:

“The Timberlake Fire Protection District and Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office has completed the joint investigation of the fire. We have determined, with a high degree of confidence, the origin and cause of the fire; however we cannot release the information at this time. The case was turned over to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Department on Tuesday, March 24.”

Being Grandpa

Yesterday was an all day excursion to Spokane for Grandparents Day at Northwest Christian School where my son Brian Teaches fourth grade. My three grandchildren, Alice, Mercy and Irene attend school there in the 5th, 3rd and Kindergarten.

The occasion was an hour long program consisting of groups singing, band and choir, all grades participating. Following that, a scrumptious dinner fixed by my Daughter-in-law, Jen. Shortly thereafter, my son Brian and the girls all dressed up for a father daughter night with a western motif.

I'm back home now, where I can re-assume my mantel as a Curmudgeon. Not too much going on since the fire. No cause has been announced yet, but I have the feeling it's known and just not appropriate at this time to discuss it. The history of Bayview has been fraught with fires. Many years ago, Vista Bay Marina burned to the water. just, what? around seven years ago, a boat caught fire while a vacuum cleaner was being used on the boat, sparking and igniting lingering fumes. That on was on the same dock as the Patio. It burned several boat slips plus two float homes out on the end of the dock. Earlier, on thanksgiving, three fishermen set out for a day of fishing only to have a malfunctioning propane hose light the boat on fire. All three jumped overboard with local boaters rescuing two of the three. Going further back, the mail boat caught fire just after leaving the fuel dock and of the mail carrier and one passenger, only the passenger survived.

Perhaps it is time to review fueling procedures, as well as heating systems on boats. Marinas are not for the most part up to code, and need desperately to comply with fire codes. The fire at the patio, if not caught in time, would have spread to the gas dock and probably wiped out the entire marina. Only the very fast response of Chief Krill and his troops saved the day. speaking of which, Krill still hasn't got enough volunteers to man the local station here in Bayview. How about it guys. Anyone out there want to help save your neighbor's house or boat?

Rumors Will Happen

There has been a lot of speculation as to the fire on the Boileau's dock. Some of the rumors are rather spectacular, what with the owners torching the place, enemies of the marina torching the place. Lets just get it all out into the open.

First, Waterford Park L.L.C. has enough marketing problems without losing an asset. That dog just doesn't hunt. Then you have the prospective lessees, ditto. One could make a case for hate toward Holland, but even there, it doesn't hold water. First, there is a security gate allowing only authorized residents and boat owners access to the dock. Residents on that dock, or boat shed renters would be unlikely candidates for arsonists, since their own asset might have burned.

Fire Chief, Jack Krill refused comment, stating that it would be inappropriate for him to give an opinion with an on going investigation. State Fire marshals, Insurance Investigators, all are a part of the scene, as an answer to this mystery is solved.

Wintertime in Bayview, breeds boredom. with boredom, comes speculation.Speculations breed rumors. I would like to put some of these Rumors to rest.First, the rumor that the Timberlake Fire District is setting fires to prove the point made in a study released just five days before this disaster. Anyone that believes this fairy tale should immediately jump back through the looking glass.

Chief Krill, first of all, is perhaps the most professional Fire chief we have had in many years, if ever. When he took over the department, one of the first goals he had, was to bring the department into compliance with standard procedures, as well as inspecting businesses that hadn't been adequately inspected in many years.

Chief Krill systematically inspected each and every business and marina in Bayview. He posted guest limits in some businesses, and in others, suggested that they were way behind the curve when it came to fire prevention. For the most part, these violators were marinas. He immediately reported these conditions to the various businesses. Coincidentally, five days after the report was issued, the disaster at Boileau's happened.

Tonight, I received word that there was a rumor that somehow, someway, the fire department was responsisble for the rash of fires that have erupted recently. The fire at the Saddle Up Restaurant, a few months ago, the mobile home that was destroyed in Athol and finally the patio. It is time to do a credibility check. Bored wintertime residents would be well advise to speak to reality, not fantasy.

These sorts of rumors, even meant as bored entertainment,are destructive, without merit and if followed back to their source, can be actionable.

Boileau's Patio Burns

Sleepy wintertime Bayview woke up to some excitement late last night, when an emergency call went out to Timberlake fire Department. Boileau's Patio was on fire. The interior, fully engulfed was gutted, but Chief Jack Krill believes the structure to be sound, and will be rebuilt as soon as permits can be issued. The gas dock behind the store was unaffected, as the fire department quickly contained the blaze.

The fire marshal, when asked of the cause, said that it was as of yet undetermined. He went on to say,"The fire department did a heck of a job to bat that fire down as quickly as they did."

The irony of it all, was that the new prospective lessees, Scott and Jeanne Bjerge, owners of the Bayview Mercantile, were scheduled to sign a lease Saturday morning. This will obviously be delayed.

The original store dated back into the 30's according to Leonard Bright who built the new store and tore down the old one. Alice Eaton, one of the oldest residents of Bayview, remembers it when it was run by a Wilson family.

The Fiscus family bought the resort in 1965, and in 1992, rebuilt the store which was located on the north side of the dock, and moved it to it's present location next to the boat launching ramp. The resort was subsequently sold to Waterford Park Homes, L.L.C. in 2005.

Anonimity

Every once in a while, someone decides to disagree with my opinions. that is OK, I enjoy a fruitful discussion where both points of view are shared. Where I differ, is when someone starts out with stuff like, "you've been at the sauce again, or some other denigrating remark that doesn't reflect on the subject matter, but chooses to get personal right off the bat. I've been somewhat ambivalent about these issue, not wanting to choke off legitimate discourse.

When such posts are made, I will usually delete them. Not because they disagree with me, but HOW the disagree with me. One can, of course disagree without becoming disagreeable. Interestingly enough,the disagreeable or even insulting comments come from you guessed it, "anonymous." I don't have any problem with a person that perhaps works in a sensitive occupation that might be adversely affected by negative publicity.

What seems to escape these hit and run posters, is that they can say anything they want without ever admitting who or what they are. These methods of communication are cowardly. I sign my name to everything I write. I never ever have dodged behind a bush so that nobody would know who I was. Most of the time, my posts are non-controversial, but even so, the occasional person that perhaps has personal issues with me and wants to taunt will slip up from beneath a rock, only to slither back after taking his/her shots.

As a result of these rare occasions I will not accept any more anonymous comments. If there is a good reason for not wanting your name used, just e-mail me first, explaining why and I will under those circumstances accept a post as long as it doesn't use my blog to make personal attacks on me or anyone else. Those that follow Huckleberries on line may notice that while many deride the persons that are currently unpopular, due to controversial opinions, etc. None of my comments seek out those people to make fun of just because everyone else does.

There are several options in the comment section. Open ID gives you the opportunity to list a name, or an URL. If you are also a Google blogger, you just have to leave it alone, as it will automatically show you with your blog name. From here on, I will not post anything in the comment section that isn't signed.

Lake Pend Oreille

Recently, a hydrologist from Washington state was featured in a Spokesman-Review story about water. It seems this guy suddenly became aware of the vast amount of water entrapped in Lake Pend Oreille. At it's deepest, between Cape Horn and Lakeview, the lake is officially 1150 feet deep. In the north end of course, it is much shallower. The principle source of water for the lake is the Clark Fork River, which flows down from central Montana at the continental divide. The Clark Fork enters Lake Pend Oreille near the north end. The Pack river also joins nearby. These river deltas keep the depths very shallow all across the north end of this fifty plus mile long lake.

The aforementioned Washington hydrologist wants to pipe water from Lake Pend Oreille into the Rathrum aquifer, so as to help low summer flows. Alas, you'd think they were Californians, lusting after the Columbia River. What makes this so bazaar is that the beginning of the aquifer is in the south end of Lake Pend Oreille already. Without Lake pend Oreille feeding Hayden Lake and Lake Coeur d'alene, there would be no Spokane river, just a creek, nor an aquifer to fight over.

To illustrate why this is such a lame idea, the picture shown above is the lake at the current winter level, eleven feet below summer pool. You see, other government entities are already stealing our water. Albeni Dam, situated at Priest River and the Pend Oreille River control the level of the lake. This control is shared between the US corps of Engineers, Avista and Bonneville Power.

This reminds me of the joke they used to tell at Silverwood. Train robber: "We're going to rob the train." conductor: "You can't rob this train." "Why not, sez the robber." conductor: Because they were already robbed at the gate!" This, while funny, illustrates that when someone has already robbed the bank, it is generally useless to come in right afterward and rob it again. This would apply to Lake Pend Oreille, as it's waters have already been stolen, thank you very much!

Feeding Wildlife

A lot has been said about feeding wild animals. Most of it bad. Last Winter, Bayview hosted for a time, three moose. A lone Bull, which we dubbed "Baywinkle," and a cow/calf duo. The cow and calf were soon killed by well meaning neighbors apparently trying to make pets out of them. These well meaning folks piled corn out on the sides of the street where the moose could find it. Find it they did, and promptly died.

Without going deeply into animal biology, some are grazers, others browsers. All, while eating sparsely seem to survive most winters quite well. When humans intervene with a sudden, richer diet, one that the animal was never intended to eat, several bad things can and do happen. First, in the case of the cow and calf moose, the corn was deadly poison. Just as cows and horses can bloat, so can wild animals. A sudden change in diet can and does kill. The actual favorite food of moose, according to Idaho fish & Game professionals, is cedar.

Secondly, feeding wildlife can lead to them losing their fear of people. A third and just as deadly, not only for the wild animals but also humans, is when you congregate a large number of animals together, they will dash across the roads, and be hit by vehicle traffic. This is usually fatal to the animal and ain't so good for the car either.

Currently, we have received reports of a deer feeding operation on Cape Horn Road near Lime Kiln. This would explain the 25 to 30 deer herded up on the hillsides above lower Cape Horn. From the edge of Dick Hansen's development, all the way up to the community center, large numbers of deer are present, close to the road and human contact. Yesterday I watched out my window, also situated on Lime Kiln Road, while a doe walked calmly up the hill after getting a drink at the spring below. It wasn't nervous, not in a hurry, just ambling along at near noon.

Lack of knowledge is the usual culprit. Most people who create these hazards have the best intentions. Please, for the sake of the deer and moose and your neighbors safety, stop feeding them.

Idaho Hunting and Fishing Rules

Perhaps it is time to roll back the clock and re-examine what hunting regulations we have and why. Back in our country's developmental stage, hunting was the way you fed your family. It wasn't sport, it was just like raising a garden, canning the results for off season. Hunting was the principle method of supplying protein to pioneer families.

In later years, over hunting caused an imbalance in the survival of these hunted animals.Another cause of regulation was the sports hunter. The ones that went out, found the biggest rack and killed just for the head and antlers. In many cases these trophy hunters left the carcass to rot, as all they wanted was the mount.

It is time, and especially in these current hard times, to remember from whence hunting came. Feeding one's family. Instead, Idaho fish & game has become an income base, rather than a conservation team. Out of state hunters flock to states like Idaho, Montana and Wyoming for the great hunting. Very few of these hunters every consume their kill. It's all about trophies and the victory over an animal that can't shoot back.

Hunting and fishing for sustenance is only allowed for Indian tribes with treaty rights. This should be returned to the rest of our population as well. After all, while Indian hunting rights are based on historical hunting grounds, so should non-Iddian residents have that historical right.

The problem? Non-resident fees support a great deal of the F&G budget. These people are no longer interested in whether a family needs a kill to feed themselves. It is all about money. This is a moral outrage. Idaho lawmakers should be only concerned with Idahoans and their welfare, not acting like money changers in the temple. As the economy grows worse, families will resort to killing deer, elk and moose, not as poachers, but as potentially starving residents. Stop selling our wild game to outsiders. We have our own to feed.

Global Warming. Our Fault? or Mother Nature

In or around 1968, long after the industrial revolution, climatologists were predicting a possible return to the ice age. Well, that didn't happen, at least not then. Now we have seen a small (roughly 2.0 ) rise in global temperatures over the last few years. As I see it, the argument used to be scientific, but is now that the liberal mantra is global warming is destroying the earth, take us back to whence we came. Introduce wolves, protect Cougars, (not the WSU kind) stop cutting our most renewable resource, our national forest trees.In short, these lefty goons want to take our world away from us in an orgy of dehumanizing of the earth. My question is aren't they part of the species too? And hey, who elected them to any office. Sierra Club? Private organization. Nowhere in our constitution does it say a private group can by miss-use of our court system, take over our country, or for that matter, the world. They need to be treated as any other threat to our system of democratic government. Actually, a republic, but I don't wish to digress to that degree.

On the other hand, some, if not many industrialists, that is if we have any left after shipping the rust belt off-shore, believe that this is merely a cyclical phenomenon that has occurred throughout the ages, with numerous ice ages, and even more warming trends. Since this is going to take many years, perhaps even hundreds, to play out, Nobody is going to win the argument in our lifetimes.

This is no longer a scientific survey, but a political football. One side says yes, we have global warming, but it is a natural cycle. The other, pretty much says,"the sky is falling." I suggest that first, shipping our heavy industry off-shore didn't change the hazards to climate. It just shifted the sources further away from us, but the shifting high altitude winds are still delivering crap to us from China and other locations. Last night, the temperatures in Bayview, modified by the warmer water of Lake Pend Oreille registered a minus 3 degrees, Fahrenheit. Today, March 11, the high was 28 degrees. Realizing that weather is not climate, we must also recognize that a whole bunch of weather over a long period of time, represents climate.

Until we get scientists that haven't been brainwashed in our uber-liberal Universities and think tanks, crap will still have a political brand as it floats downhill toward us.It is time to listen to the other side of the argument, rather than just the "Chicken Little's," of our world.

Outsourcing Out Of Hand?

Today, I'm writing mostly about odds and ends. Actually as per usual I write more about odds. Sorting through things in a box that I hadn't opened yet, including some bills,(good thing I bank on line)I discovered a phone book, titled "The Local Pages, of Idaho,LLC." Well, over the course of a year, I get Spokane/Coeur d'Alene white and yellow pages, Coeur d'Alene, the black book by Hagadone Directories, and now this.

I peeled the plastic wrap off gently. Actually, there is no gentle way to peel plastic off from anything. It requires anything from a knife or scissors, to heavy equipment to get at these gems. Having gone to the trouble of extricating this book, I opened it. This is where I believe outsourcing has gone too far. Some dingy alleyway mud hut in Calcutta, India, scored big time on this one.

Just inside is a coverage map. An excellent idea. In looking at the map, however, I noticed just north of Athol, an arrow pointing north with the cutline, "to Carymore. Which most of you know is "Careywood." Page five revealed what appeared to be a county map which actually included Kootenai, Bonner and Spokane counties. The only problem is that they apparently, in the quest for ever cheaper labor, didn't hire a copywriter. I perused the "counties" map carefully. Yes, not an aberration, but more. North of Careywood, (this time spelled correctly) was Coclalis, actual spelling, Cocolalla. That takes care of my neck of the woods, but Post Falls and Dalton Gardens probably would prefer their spellings, to Dalton Garden, or Post Hills.

I guess leaving the L out of Marshall, Wa is OK since it's small and doesn't need two L's anyway. Oh, and I forgot that Russian settlement north of Spokane, Chattarov, instead of Chatteroy. One can only wonder who will answer the phone if you actually use this book as a serious reference?

Mother Nature's Playpen

Just as we were getting rid of the mountains of snow that has plagued us since mid-December, grass starting to grow, trees budding, wham! An arctic outbreak is sweeping into the area which will give us somewhere between 4 and 6 inches of snow by Tuesday A.M. Then a blast of unseasonable air will come storming into the area plunging temperatures down to below zero.This global warming is getting serious. With any more warming such as we have had the last two years, we can look forward to spring weather sometime in July.

Hey, this is one-third of the way through March! give me a break. There was one period at the end of December that I couldn't access my car for a week. then when I got it out of the parking space, it snowed in just behind me. My car lived at the Captain's Wheel for two weeks.

Soon after this belated blast of winter, we should finally see a warming trend and early spring. After all, didn't I see four robins in the yard yesterday?

I must have jinxed us where I visited the garden store the other day. Oh well, time to check my mail and a peek at the river Journal site to see if it's out yet. It is.Incidentally, for you folks that are out of the circulation area, which is from Clark Fork through Sandpoint and ending at Athol, Idaho. You can, however, access the stories by going to: http://www.riverjournal.com/

I'll be writing just one column per month under the new combined Sunday format, plus the River Journal. some additional features may be allowed if the content is interesting enough. If any of you local folks have any story ideas, do not hesitate to give me a heads up. I don't always hear about them.

There They Go Again

In the March 5 edition of the spokesman-Review, an article by Becky Kramer suggests that the State of Washington has the hots for Lake Pend Oreille water. Well, folks, get in line. Pipe dreams (pun intended) like this have over a period of many years have gone from Southern California wanting to transplant the Columbia River to Los Angeles, and now this. first, noted hydrologist, John Covert appears to need better sense. He's either uninformed or just another dreamer without a plan.

The State of Idaho doesn't really control the waters of Lake Pend Oreille. A combination of Avista and Bonneville power, with the U.S. Corps of Engineers thrown in control the water levels, both winter and summer. In some years, the differential between the seasons have been up to eleven feet, as in the fall, the lake is drawn down to very low levels, so that the Bonneville power system will have more water down stream in the Columbia river system of dams. It is important to remember that Lake Pend Oreille is a natural lake, albeit held at a higher level than nature intended,not a man-made reservoir, and as such is treated differently than the artificial ones.

Residents and communities surrounding the lake have fought with limited success to keep the lake levels within reasonable bounds. In the past, the draw-downs were willy-nilly, generally caused by electrical needs on the west coast. This caused massive fish kills, among the shore spawning kokanee, which spawn in late November. The Lake Pend Oreille club, as sports fishing group located in Sandpoint, sued several years ago, causing Bonneville Power and Avista to time the draw downs before the fish spawn. The settlement was greeted with mixed results, but at least a solution was reached, even though the flushing of the lake dramatically between Labor Day week-end, generally the start of the draw down, and before the mid-November spawning cycle begins. Mixed results have been experienced, since the millions of kokanee that once populated the lake and caused a commercial fishing season in the past, and created a sports fishery with hundreds flocking to the shore.

To suggest that another government entity will take more water, is ludicrous.Other than the fact that seems to have escaped the hydrologist, which is the eastern lobe of the aquifer begins in Buttonhook Bay, a part of the southern end of the lake. In other words, folks, they already have a pipeline out of our lake into the aquifer. Whats that old saying? "You can dress 'em up, but you can't take them anywhere."

Boating Safety Isn't Just A Slogan

Almost every year, up here on Lake Pend Oreille, we lose one and sometimes more boaters to drowning or other boating misadventures. These lives were lost, not because of a vengeful mother nature, but because the operators of these boats either didn't have the advantage of a boating safety class, or disregarded the rules. Disregarding rules of safety, with the idea that these rules do not apply to you, or the conditions, or whatever else the reckless can think up.

Currently, we have the disaster of several professional and college level football players drove an open 21 foot boat out 30 ,miles into the gulf stream to go fishing. Much of those waters are shallow, which can give a false sense of security. It can also be the harbinger of high waves and rough chop. There is no cure for stupid, and these guys proved it. I wouldn't travel out of scenic bay in anything that small. These boats are built for speed, not stability.

Secondly, they, when finding the waves too rough, anchored. That killed them right there. Unless you have an extraordinary length of anchor line, a short anchor will pull the bow down, causing the boat to swamp as this one did. The decisions that these guys made were all designed to end their lives early.

For those that profess to know a bit about boating safety, or those that were smart enough to take classes on boating safety, will pick up immediately on the fact that rather than anchoring in shallow water with inadequate length of anchor line, was a death sentence. What you do in that situation, that is if you were stupid enough to go out in the ocean 30 miles in a 21 footer, is rig a sea anchor. A bucket or a couple of coats. ...Anything that weighs a lot dragged behind a boat will always keep the bow into the wind, thence keeping you in the boat, and the water out. That these kids didn't know any better, cost them their existence.

We here in Bayview, have decided, with the support and leadership of Timberlake Fire District Chief, Jack Krill, to take a proactive stance with this issue. One, we are planning on trying to establish a coast guard auxiliary here in Bayview. We lost one out of three of the winter fishermen a while back, when with a better education system could have perhaps saved all of them. Premature deaths of otherwise healthy people should and is preventable. We are going to try!

Perhaps one solution would be to outlaw cardtrol fuel pumps that are unattended. With an attendant making sure the blowers are on before engine start, the gathering of fumes after fueling that cost so many boaters their boats and sometimes their lives could be prevented. Fueling requires the boater to open the engine hatches and run the bilge blowers for at least 5 minuets after fueling. Without that you are leaving the dock on top of a bomb.

Those of you that reside in the Bayview area, have a boat and would like to help create a safer environment on the water, can e-mail or call me. If enough are interested, we'll contact the Coast Guard for organizational material.