My Birthday

Providing I last until March 23, I will celebrate my 80th birthday at the Captain's Wheel Saturday March 24 at a no host party.

Right now, the only thought I have about turning 80 is that it took a very long time to get there.

I'll have updates as we approach the fateful day.

Racism From the Left

I think I finally figured it out. If you are a "Black lives Matter" person, or an ultra liberal from Hollywood or San Francisco, you are winners.If you are  are white, you are either a racist, a Nazi or a redneck. Not since world war 11 has the term been so over used.

Never in my lifetime has a minority turned the tables and are now the privileged class. No longer is it good enough to be equal, they now have taken over. Even communists are currently being honored.

You cannot find a commercial on television that doesn't have black people in it. Black millionaire football players, playing t o a captive audience, spew hate and disrespect for our flag, our anthem and our country. Equality is no longer enough. Black Lives Matter folks would have to give up too much to go back to equality.

One wonders how long the sports fans will continue to spend their money on football, since a large majority of adults have served proudly in the military. 

Reverse Racism

When I watch TV these days, seldom if ever do I see a scene or commercial without a black person in it.

Police are maligned and shot by minorities, yet when as in Chicago no media that I have seen shows any black on black violence which after all is prevalent. Nor do they show police officers assisting civilians.

This is a one sided show that misrepresents the reality that prevails in 95% of police shootings. In Kootenai County, Idaho the sheriff advertises for officer trainees with no results. Why would any young person  set themselves up in a dangerous job that is also thankless.

Yet we the white race are pummeled with hate from people that are not downtrodden, but are actually being treated as a privileged class. 

Disrespect

I am glad that I will probably die in the next few years. The parents that populated San Francisco in the 1960's with pot, free love and radical political positions, have spawned a generation of anti-American  radicals that are now running our country into the ground. These radicals now are grandchildren of the '60's radicals

While anti-Vietnam rallies were probably the largest harm to this country, their spawn is even worse. They have been raised by those weirdos from the 1960's.

Enter the riots in eastern cities in the east, like Baltimore, Missouri and others Now, instead of blaming black criminals for the deaths when shot by police, the leftist press is making the officer the villain, while protecting the communities they serve.

Segue to the present and we have football players, most  who are bringing down millions in pay, feel oppressed.  How anyone can feel sorry for players that have taken advantage of our system and with great effort climbed the hill of success then claim they are downtrodden.

I have been a Seahawks fan since I attended their first game in 1976. No longer. This team, management and ownership have chose political correctness, (read leftist agenda) over honoring our flag and trashing old fashioned patriotism.

How about being straight up here and naming it a fake issue.

Nuclear War

Well, we have finally achieved an enemy that s both crazy, and capable. New North Korea is targeting San Francisco. Frightening?

Wat a minute. There are some potential advantages here. They nuke San Francisco 
 and we bomb  Their capital.

Tit for tat. They lose their entire government, we lose Pelosi. I consider this a good trade off.  Just sayin.

Seasonal Changes

I think we can all agree that fall has arrived with a vengeance. From 80 straight days of heat and drought to heavy rain, hail and cooler temperatures... Overnight.

Now, once the fires are out we can prepare to bitch about rain, snow and  other nasty weather. By spring we will all pray for global warming again.

Boats are leaving Bayview in droves as cruising weather is gone. Staying of course are the fishing boats that are preparing for the fall Derby September 30-Oct 1st. See Ralph at 683-2218 for info and tickets.

Charities

There have been many criticisms of various charities during ts trying time with Harvey and Irma. I think some of the remarks about the Red Cross perhaps unwarranted.

When a disaster strikes, many new charities pop up, most of them legitimate, but not all. These temporary organizations disappear after the emergency is over.

Not so the Red Cross. While yes, there are permanent staff that are well paid, so would any standing business that had such wide spread links and functions. They do not invent themselves when an emergency happens, but are standing by fully prepared to jump in with all of their facilities, immediately.

Obviously, they have a higher overhead than the temps. We should try to examine all of the factors before demonizing some without solid facts.

Dreamers

There is much controversy regarding illegal immigrants that came to this country with their parents as young children. I woke up after a dream sequence a couple of days ago and before the president declared the program dead after 6 months. This gives congress ample time to either pass a law legitimizing these people who are now productive adults or not. These laws that were ignored by President Obama, but without the law permitting it should not have been done.

I am in favor of law abiding Dreamers being allowed to stay and either work or pursue an education. Having said that, congress needs to step up and do it's job.

It's poop or get off the pot time.

Weather Relief??

Weather relief may be just around the corner. While most of us revel in the nice weather sometimes happening after labor day weekend, it is not typical. Recently the long range forecast (Accuweather) said no rain until the 27th of September here in the North Idaho Panhandle.

Today a different story. Monday, September 11 shows a significant thunder storm followed by a day of rain and drizzle. This then follows a pattern of off and on rainy weather, punctuated by some sunny days.

The following week the day temps should fall into the '60's. Yeas, you heard me right. Bye bye, 90's.

We can only hope that this is true and some of the wild fires will drown.

More Bayview W & S

I do not know the source of this artical but am publishing it for your information. I do not attest to it's accuracy.

 

NOTICE TO BAYVIEW SEWER CUSTOMERS -

Let it be known that the new board has voted to terminate the last remaining employee, who possess current licenses to operate all aspects of wastewater collection, treatment and land application as well as water distribution.

The BW & S board has now contracted with a water management company who does not hold licenses to operate the wastewater treatment site, and as such, this operation has been shut down months early and all waste water is being diverted to the leach fields, intended only for winter usage. The Department of Environmental Quality intervened, since the district was out of compliance with licensure requirements.

If you are concerned with this action, please come to the district Budget Hearing special meeting this Thursday at 3:30, Community Center.

Disembowled Bayview W & S

I was shocked yesterday when I learned that the longtime manager of the Sewer District quit his job about four months ago. Where was the news. It certainly rated a story in Bylines. Is it possible that only news that the writer agrees with is published?

Then on top of that, The only qualified person left, Reed, was dumped in favor of bringing in an outsider that has no knowledge of the infrastructure here.

I, at this point feel the board of directors are out of control. I deeply regret my vote and the backing of the two recent candidates. If there is a valid reason for this action, almost doubling the salary that Reed received, for a stranger, we need to hear  about it and right now. This appears to be power run amok.

Political Insanity

Political insanity is evident, or is it. Either the far left and the typically leftist media has totally lost it, or it is a deliberate attempt to disrupt this country.

Don Lemon of CNN claimed President Trump is trying to create a new Civil War. At what point is opinion legitimate and incitement to riot cross.

Yesterday, in a typical political rally, the obviously pro trump crowd ate up his every word. One issue that he raised, was the championing of the veteran's choice program. Unfortunately, he was not informed by his VA director, that funding for the very successful program had just ran out of funds and has been suspended.

The horror though, was when the rally broke up and guests began to depart, they were violently attacked by leftist thugs. Perhaps we are on the cusp of a new civil war. But if we are, credit the radical media for pouring gas on the embers.

I called three of Labrador's offices. Coeur d'Alene, Meridian and Washington, D. C. Nobody was home at any of them. I finally called our other U.S.representative's office. Simpson's office was not aware of the lack of funding in the Choice program, and though I am not in his district, they were thankful for the heads up.

I will have more in the coming days.

USS Zumwalt

http://www.verizoninternet.com/bookmark/uss-zumwalt/

The death throws of the Spokesman-Review

During the retirement party at the Fort Ground Grill, DFO told me of a total of ten buyouts, all long term quality writers. Landers is gone along with Greg Lee who covered local North Idaho prep sports.

Gone is the iconic Clark and Huckleberries on line with Dave Oliveria. All of these so called volunteer early retirements suggests rats leaving a sinking ship. Get out whole while there are still options left.

The blogging community of which I am one is going to fly apart without Hucks as the glue that held it together.

I don't have the names of the rest, but you can draw a line under long term staff. I think Betsy will leave as well. It turns out Curly wasn't hired as an editor but as a funeral director as the S/R guts itself. Perhaps they will trek on with correspondents like editor Smith tried to do a few years ago or maybe they will just shut down. The once icon daily is in a death spiral.

Farragut History

Tuesday, August 1 was the fiftieth anniversary of the Boy Scout World Jamboree, held at Farragut State Park. 40 to 50 visitors gathered in celebration of the event where some of the original scouts came together along with current scouts and leaders. One such was a retired man from Australia who traveled from down under all the way to North Idaho for the original Jamboree, then came back this year for the reunion.

In recent years the park is undergoing a face lift, but the venerable brig, or navy for jail is the only structure left from World War 11. It was turned into a museum which is constantly evolving. A new wing commemorating local history and the scouts was opened a year ago and new exhibits abound in all areas. Erin Bair, park ranger and mother hen over the museum is still in fine form.

Between 2009 and 2015, a state of the art sewer system was built which allowed much expansion from when septic systems limited how much growth could occur. This five million dollar project brought forth many changes now in the works in many areas of the park. Two new dump stations which were made available to the public were installed. These dump stations are located near Gilmore and Snowberry Campgrounds.

Gilmore Campground now holds fifty camp areas with partial hookups. This is out for bit to enlarge to 100, double it's current capacity, with the new sites having full hookups. Scott Field, a group campground will soon host up to 600 campers. A new access off of Monagham will shorten the way in.

Sunrise day use area has had remodels of shelters as well as guest cabins re roofed recently.

The newest expansion will be started this fall when Tree to Tree, Idaho will start construction on an obstetrical course at Locust Grove. Among other attractions if will feature a zip line for easy aerial travel. This will be the second for profit concession ever at the park. (Currently, River Odyssey West is operating guided bike rides within Farragut, booked out of Coeur d'Alene)

Several favorite places in the park are Buttonhook Bay, a protected area at the extreme south end of Lake Pend Oreille and Beaver Bay, a swimming area.

 

After the U.S. Government deeded the former naval training base to the state of Idaho, it still hadn't been dedicated as a park until the hurried plan for a huge Girl Scout Jamboree for 1965 was developed. This followed by the world jamboree of boy scouts in 1967.

A four mile former railroad right of way formed another state park between Howard Road and the western park boundary. This Railroad brought recruits from Athol to the training station and was torn out after the nay closed the base. Ironically, a different railway was deactivated just four year earlier when the Lime kilns in Bayview closed down in 1938.

Today the park is managed and staffed with the best crew in years. They rightfully should take pride in the work they do and the attitudes of welcome that prevail.

Stunned

I was stunned by the sudden news that we only have one week left for our North Idaho blog, Huckleberries. It isn't just a blog site, it is the glue that holds our blogging community together.

Only time will tell, but I think many of our blogs will bite the dust when Huckleberries central gos away. DFO got me started blogging when I barely knew how to turn on my computer.

That in turn led to my 5 year stint as a correspondent for the Spokesman-Review. Now we will hear the sound of one hand clapping.

I grieve. 

Boy Scout Reunion

August 1, 1967 marked the First World Jamboree in Idaho for the international Scouting movement. Between 40 and 50 attended this celebration, many who attended the first one in 1967. There were also many current Boy Scouts along with many in scouting leadership.

I met a former scout that traveled all the way from Australia for the first Jamboree, and returned for the reunion.

1:00 pm saw a flag raising, with the Friendship Tower in the background. There are actually two of the awesome towers, but one has been gobbled up by a spreading forest.

Aging

Much about aging sucks. The only saving grace is that you didn't die young. Having said that, as I grow older, (79) I acquire more aches and pains. Since my three siblings all have sleep apnea, I decided to get checked out. Sure enough I have it too.during my sleep study, the technician told me I stopped breathing 29 times out of an hour.

So, I ordered a CPAP machine which gives positive air flow during sleep. It does however, make one look like a Martian. Naturally, as soon as I donned the mask, my nose itched and I couldn't scratch it.

Other than that, I passed my annual physical with flying colors yesterday.

Bonner County Embarrassed

It would appear that the failure of Bonner County's equipment to find John Key's body has resulted in embarrassment for not seeking help from Kootenai County, who may have more sophisticated equipment that would help with the search.

Said help was requested and was granted by sheriff Ben Wolfinger recently, according to a blurb in the paper.

Without a declaration of death by authorities, his widow and family would have to wait seven years for a death certificate to be issued. In the mean time, the family is going to suffer severe financial difficulties in addition to the horror of loosing this fine man and father/husband.

I recommend that his closest friends start a "go fund me" account to help out.

We can only hope that the intensified effort will find the body, even if it isn't recoverable, which could lead to a declaration of death, triggering social security benefits.

Sheriff Wolfinger is to be congratulated for his marine division offering help.

Drownings Revisited

By happenstance, as I was walking up the boat ramp in Bayview yesterday, I spotted a pickup with Bonner County Sheriff lettered on the side. I meandered over and asked the person who was not in uniform why they were not doing more to find Santa.

He introduced himself as the  officer in charge of the marine division in Bonner County. He went on to explain very patiently about cold water drownings. Bodies in the water go to the bottom rather quickly, unlike in warmer areas where they pop up before taking the plunge.

In other words there is no chance of recovery or discovery in water 1100 feet deep. Side scanning sonar is only effective in shallow water above 200 feet deep.

In the interest of accuracy and fairness I felt it necessary to retract the allegations I repeated about Bonner County.

Bad Santa

John Key, alias "Bad Santa wasn't really bad at all. He was loved by many, especially his two best friends, Anne DuPont and Chris Gormsen. None of us ever heard a bad word either from him or about him. Most that knew him well did not automatically assume he was drunk when he and his boat separated company off Cape Horn over last week-end. Many feel at age 67, he may have experienced a heart attack.

Personally I prefer that a huge fish dragged him into the water. What is terribly disappointing is the lack of cooperation from the authorities in Bonner County. According to Chris Gormsen, best friend and side kick, the Bonner County water cops told him first, they would stay out there until John was found.

Then made the excuse that their side view sonar was broke and they withdrew. Last weekend the community responded with over a dozen boaters scouting the shorelines looking for their friend. I called Sheriff Ben Wolfinger with a question. Did Bonner County ask to borrow the needed equipment that could discover where Santa's body is? " Ben replied, not that I recall, and I would have been told if they had."

The attitude sucks. One wonders why citizens that are not Bonner County residents are perhaps second class. Or maybe they treat their own that way too. Just be glad we live in Kootenai County where we have a government that cares, a sheriff's Department that pulls out the stops to support our citizens when in trouble.

We will always miss Bad Santa.  He was the real deal.

 "Please join us as we celebrate the life of John A. Key, A.K.A Bad Santa. The celebration will be held 7-15-17 at the Bayview Community Center located at 20298 E. Perimeter Rd. Bayview, Idaho 83803 from 2-5 pm. This will be a casual event with light snacks provided. Please feel free to share this post so we can celebrate with ALL who loved John."

Dangerous Heat

Us seasoned citizens (I'm 79) have to be very careful when the temps exceed 95 or so. Heat stroke, heart attacks and such can occur. This cannot be much fun.

For me, I'm going to hunker down with my air conditioner, which is now working just fine. I hope others taker care as well for safeties sake.

Have a great safe week end.

Restaurant Capacity

A couple of years ago the Captain's Wheel Restaurant received complaints about slow service. This was due to hundreds of visitors in town with only one full service restaurant open.

This could happen again this year with the Buttonhook closed. Limited menus are available at Ralph's and the Floating Patio, but I advise folks to dine early before the rush.

The unfortunate result with the Buttonhook, is a small group of anti-business left wing people who especially resent Chan Karupiah, owner of several marinas including the Buttonhook.

A recent hearing by the road district in response to an easement request by Karupiah, was faithfully attended by this anti-everything group. They are not just harming the Buttonhook, but also the community. The negative impact on tourism will soon be felt if we don't have enough dining facilities to handle the crowds. Without this easement connecting the Buttonhook with Harborview marina, no resort liquor license can be obtained.  

Summer Time

Many of you might wonder why the dearth of blog posts. It is simple. It's finally warm out and instead of writing I'm experiencing. Today and Monday we are supposed to exceed 90 degrees.

Bayview Daze is approaching fast. The parade, street fair and fireworks will be on July 1, Saturday. Come on down. This year the combat veterans will be honored.

Kick back and enjoy.

Horrible News Coverage

As I went on line this morning, I found it fascinating that the news media couldn't let go to the shooting at the Congressional baseball practice. Sure it was newsworthy, but not for three news cycles.

Before noon today, it was announced only on Accu-weather, did the story of a blimp crashing into the golf course at the U.S Open. Rather than depart from the mock congressional baseball game, they ignored it.

Finally, around 7:00 pm a runner, below the main story, mentioned that this happened.   What should have been a headline news story got  erased by another political one.

In this day and age, I suspect the Hindenburg disaster would be ignored, if an juicy political story was unfolding. God, where is 24 hour news when you need them.

Double Standards

As I watched coverage of the Gay Pride Parade, It got me to thinking of the irony. First, why take pride in deviant  behavior that up until a few years ago was criminal.Sodomy probably still is in many places.

What would the media do if we heterosexuals organized a straight parade. Certainly, since we provide though our guy/girl orientation, the wherewithal to repopulate our country.

How about the Congressional Black Caucus. Again, the media would have a stroke if a white congressional caucus emerged.

The last straw was the new commercial by  Jack-in-the box, using a gay wedding to sell burgers.

While you revisionists are probably blinded by your reverse racism, and your promoting a gay life style over heterosexuals. Nevertheless, Neither you nor they are right.

Sodomy is the root cause of the Aids epidemic. Sure it can be transmitted by normal sex, that is not why it raced to epidemic status. It is past time that we call a spade a spade and not be afraid to speak the truth for fear that inevitably we will be branded heretics and worse, political correctness is a   term and philosophy that was developed by the media and nurtured by them.

Our country is being torn apart by denying our heritage and Christian standards. So go ahead. Call me names all you want. I would rather care about the majority of us that still follow the rules.

Paris Accord

If  we look back over the last twenty years, we find that an unelected group headed by the Sierra Club has taken over a large segment of our economy.

In the name of fighting pollution, preserving water and ceasing the use of fossil fuels, they, not elected to represent anyone, have negatively influenced our economy.

The Obama administration and their fellow travelers, have in every way they can think of, stifled industry.  What once was the industrial heartland of this country is now referred to as the rust belt.

We have caved in to every nonsense ruling since the spotted owl controversy. The courts have taken over legislation, rather than interpreting existing law.

Hopefully, the Trump administration will find a balance between intelligent conservation and extremism. Many court decisions will have to be appealed, but thank God, we preserved the rule of law by appointing a conservative justice.

Sometimes it takes a jolt of reality to realize how far left we have gone. Detroit shouldn't be a ghost town like it is today. Some think President Trump is insane. Not me. He is the hope of middle America and the rest of us in reversing this judicial overreach.

Restart

Tomorrow marks the return to writing for me. My first monthly column in the Coeur d'Alene Press will debut in 41 North.

The subject will be a flashback to Yvonne Wallis's trials and tribulations following the horrible hammer attack back in 2010. The crime which saw Yvonne's near death experience and her daughter-in-law's death from that attack which was perpetuated by Larry Cragun.

Future columns will feature expansion at Farragut State Park and of course the proposed shopping center planned for Athol.

***Oops, my editor got confused. He now predicts the 41 North insert next Wednesday.

Pejoratives

It seems to me that pejoratives have become more vicious lately than in the past. Name calling is the new emphases rather than logical arguments.

Two very egregious ones are Racist and Fascist. Mostly anytime an Afro-American disagrees with a Caucasian, the alleged offender is labeled a racist.

If you are a conservative, even not extreme right, you are then a fascist.

I doubt that either term is accurate more than one percent of the time. I wonder who gets hurt the most? The object of the curse or the extremists that hurl the labels with abandon.

Fortunately, at my age I don't get excited enough to throw epitaphs around at people I don't agree with. Or maybe I just grew up.

I would like to see some decorum return to political debates and retire some of the screamers like Maxine Waters and others to whom objectivity is not in their vocabulary. 

Yvonne Wallis

Many of you know Yvonne Wallis. She is disabled, barely able to walk. A few years ago she was a victim of a brutal hammer attack by a neighbor. It killed her daughter-in-law and fractured her scull. Two years of surgeries and months of infection fighting antibiotics administered by IV followed. Throughout these ordeals, her best friend and companion stood by her.

Her companion dog, Ginger, a schnauzer, is now in need of surgery which will cost $700.00. While waiting for the funds to be raised, she is in constant pain. To loose this dog would be akin to losing one's child. Please help her.

For those of you that know where she lives, drop by with whatever you can afford. You may also mail a check to her at PO Box 144, Bayview, ID 83803. She can be reached at 208-683-0675. Let's get this done.

****This problem has been solved. A generous Veterinarian has anonymously agreed to perform the surgery free. 

Herb Jr Visit

It occurred to both of us that most people in Bayview didn't know anything about my family. So I am going to enlighten you.

First, I have four children.  Two guys and two girls. They, like their father, turned into Jackrabbits, producing I think eighteen grandchildren. The oldest are now procreating great-grandchildren.

So yes, I have a family. Herb Jr turned 52 while he was here. The entire community went wow, 'cause I was just an unattached old guy. My son was well received throughout his stay, which was gratifying. I thank you all for that.

Next time you wish to judge an old man alone, remember we still ache, want, remember and sometimes we want the ability to do things over. Unfortunately, there are no mulligans in life. We have earned where we are, good and bad by the decisions we make back in our twenties and thirties.

One can only hope that the Lord will give me some slack. 

Bayview Water & Sewer

Bayview Water and Sewer District

SPECIAL Meeting

Location: Bayview Water & Sewer District office

16401 E. Emerson Drive Bayview, Idaho 83803

3:30 PM Tuesday, April 25, 2017

AGENDA

Approval of Agenda  IC 74-204 (4)c- An agenda may be amended after the start of a meeting upon a motion that states the reason the agenda item was not included in the original agenda posting.

Bayview Water & Sewer Election

The are some fine candidates for the board running in May. Not to disparage the others, two stand out from the field. Board president Richard Doney took over during the tumultuous period following the death of Chuck Waller and straightened things our quickly. Prior boards were the fiefdom of Waller. He appointed all of the board members without an election.

During the period ending last Winter, Bayview Water & Sewer didn't even have bylaws. That was fixed by Robyn Edwards who isn't well know yet here in Bayview, but she used to run another Water district and was able to provide  sample bylaws that fit well, so that with minor changes, we didn't have to start from scratch.

Both of these candidates are superior  to most others in our area. This is a hard choice, since the other candidates have long contributed to our community, but this isn't about personalities, it's about experience.

I also recommend that a change in the bylaws making holding office limited to Bayview and Cape Horn residents that are registered here to vote.

Flip Flopping

The left seems to enjoy using terms that are a cousin to name calling, which they have long enjoyed. Recently, they have accused the president of flip flopping on policy issues. This is clearly a pejorative term which tends to imply that President Trump cannot make up his mind on a number of issues.

Objectively, we have a president who has never held public office. He was like a kid with his nose pressed against the window of a candy store.

When he was elected, the realities hit. Actions had to be taken where before, theories abounded. This is called on the job training.That he has enough intellect to modify his previous theories is a plus. A positive, not a negative. Reality will do that to all but the most stubborn.

My goal has already been reached. We have a new Supreme Court Justice. Not a legislator in a black robe. There are rumors that there might be another vacancy in the near future. Anything he does after that is gravy.

Fox News

With the departure of Meghan Kelly and Bill Oreilly, the two most popular hosts, Fox is not looking good.

This alleged misbehavior has not given us details. While perhaps suggestive comments are not polite, they don't add up to m illions of dollars damage. Something isn't right here.

Kelly has now debunked that she left for NBC. She said recently Fox declined to renew her contract.

Wouldn't it be ironic if both Kelly and O'Reilly ended up on the same network.

That there is a Fox in the hen house is probable.

Dead Heading Crews

The United fiasco of last week not only shouldn't have, it didn't even need to. It runs out that American had a flight that left for the same destination one hour later. The media of course, didn't check whether there was room on that flight. But even if there weren't, they could have charted a lear or even drove the crew, only a four hour drive.

What really torques my jaws though is the sloppy coverage both the print and television media handled the crises. They consistently mixed the terms "over booking," with the reality, which was dead heading a crew. Over booking, in the contract covering a ticket, allows an airline the right to bump ticketed passengers BEFORE THEY BOARD. Once seated, they cannot.

The press constantly referred to over booking, which was not the issue. I blame very poor journalistic practices for the confusion. Poor fact finding, erroneous reporting was apparently caused by trying to beat the other outlets, even if their information was wrong, and it was.

Even dredging up the victim's legal problems was wrong. That had no beating on the cause and effect of the activities. I predict a large lawsuit settlement followed by some congressional oversight rule changes. If the airlines cannot be customer friendly, then government intervention will require it.

The skies are no longer friendly. How sad. One good thing that may occur is that after the dragging incident, over booking may never be a problem for United again.Perhaps we need to re-regulate them, as their freedom didn't get the desired effect.On a lighter note, I thought you would enjoy this related clip Ray Stevens recorded a few years ago.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LdtCzLQxrL0

Back In The Saddle Again

Years ago when I was a lad, we had singing cowboys. Roy Rogers and Gene Autry were two of the most successful. Gene Autry's theme song was "Back in the saddle again."

Well, someone remembered I used to write feature stories for the Spokesman Review. This lasted about five years up to the time the paper divorced North Idaho. I learned later, that between Athol and Bayview, 60 subscribers cancelled, presumably to subscribe to the Coeur d'Alene Press.

A couple of days ago I was contacted by the press, asking if I would be willing to write a monthly column. I immediately agreed to do so. My first column will probably be in the May issue around the third week of the month.

If  you know of a story that would interest others, call me at 208-683-9107 or e-mail me at bayviewherb@gmail.com

I am pumped. If I haven't lost the touch, you soon will read about people and events around our community. We may be rural, but we will have a voice. I'm back in the saddle again. 

Legality of Syrian Attack

Several members of Congress, the noisiest being Senator Rand Paul have stated the President acting as he did, was unconstitutional. He is factually wrong. Read the following:

the War Powers Act. BrE. a US law passed in 1973 which allows Congress to limit the President's use of military forces. It states that the President must tell Congress within 48 hours if he sends armed forces anywhere, and Congress must give approval for them to stay there for more than 90 days.

This means Trump could have invaded if he chose, unless congress disapproved, for up to 90 days. How about toning down the negative rhetoric and just sticking to the facts.

None of the usual cable and/or broadcast news sources have brought this up.

New Iraq Policies

For the last 8 years, our country has been run by an avowed pacifist. His only weapon was drawing red lines.This has led to other countries such as Russia, Syria and other players that have correctly labeled the U.S. as Cowards. This creates a license for trouble makers to expand their activities.

Today, those who have wondered about President Trump's ability to first, listen to his senior advisers in  the military, and secondly, assert the United States power when felt it necessary.

What we have in reserve, are some of the former Ohio Class Missile subs which were converted to massive numbers of Tomahawk missiles. I don't know where they are deployed, but they certainly are not effective in Puget Sound.

The balancing point here is what can we do, what effect will these attacks and what possible retaliation will be probable and from where. In all of the wars this country has been involved going back to WW1, there were only two sides. Coalitions were formed, but in Iraq and Syria there are numbers of groups that are working at cross purposes with each other with mixed directions and allies.

I am proud to back a strong president that will truly make us great again. We have had two pacifist presidents have have reeked havoc on our country. Carter and now Obama. We have rearmed and recovered from these disasters, but at huge cost to catch up to where we were before these presidents dismantled our military and naval strengths.

The beast is loose in Syria and only his removal will make possible to reunite this broken state. 

Zags Came Short

I believe that Gonzaga played better over all than NC. The difference looked to be first time pressure,  If you look a Shem missing short under the basket shots that he normally made, I think , I hate to use the term choked, but considering the usual shooting skills were absent, I think the difference was pressure.

Now about next year, we look great. If nobody goes pro, we have Collins, an able substitute for Shem. We only lose to starters to graduation with a great bench. Do not be surprised if the Zags end up in the final four next year too. 

They just missed too many open shots.

Water & Sewer Board Vacancy

Due to illness, Don Gardner has resigned from the

Bayview Water & Sewer Board of Directors.

Anyone interested should submit a resume to the District's office before April 21^st, 2017.

Sheryl Puckett

4:34 PM (5 hours ago)

to Richard, me, norma, Jackie SENT  to my master email list and POSTED on Facebook. Click here to Reply, Reply to all, or Forward 1.58 GB (10%) of 15 GB used Manage Terms - Privacy Last account activity: 5 hours ago Due to illness, Don Gardner has resigned from the Bayview Water & Sewer Board of Directors. Anyone interested should submit a resume to the District's office before April 21st, 2017. Sheryl Puckett 4:34 PM (5 hours ago) to Richard, me, norma, Jackie SENT  to my master email list and POSTED on Facebook. Click here to Reply, Reply to all, or Forward 1.58 GB (10%) of 15 GB used Manage Terms - Privacy Last account activity: 5 hours ago Details People (4) Richard Doney Show details Details		People (4) Richard Doney

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Growing Old

Growing up is out of the question. Growing old is not. Here I am, one year away from 80 years old. I have had no training for this journey. Suddenly I'm a Geezer.

I have aches and pains in locations I didn't know existed. I woke up this morning with my little finger feeling like it's broke. A couple weeks ago my doctor feeling a lump in my left pectoral, (Tit for you poorly educated)  sent me to Bonner Memorial hospital for a Mammogram.

I thought Brest Cancer only occurred in females. It turns out that it is quit common in men as well. fortunately mine was benign.

There are rumors that Spring may occur soon, but I'm not betting on it. Still I'll start my tomatoes for the seedling faze.

My 79th birthday afternoon March 23, found me watching the Zags make history. I think we have a better chance to beat South Carolina than North Carolina. Go Zags!

What Wait?

Yesterday March 23 was my 79th birthday.That meant renewing my drivers license among other things.

Rising early, an unusual event for this retired old guy. My schedule was as follows: First, a haircut, which due to mostly weather related events was delayed to the shaggy condition, so it was my first stop in Hayden. There was just one customer ahead of me.

Dreading the expected long wait at the DMV, I, believing a lengthy period on my butt. I walked in and behold! while all of the windows were full, nary a seat was occupied in the waiting area. After a ten minute wait I approached the deputy hoping my glasses on order at the VA would not be needed. The lady that served me acted like I needed a white cane and a seeing eye dog. But explaining the glasses on order hadn't arrived yet, she begrudgingly passes me, took my $30.00 and Wallah, I was done.

Unfortunately instead of leaving Coeur d"Alene at two, heading to the Spokane VA for a scheduled CT scan, I had time to burn. So I had an early lunch at a Chinese restaurant. In my car I noticed it was just 12.03. I reached the VA at 1:00, with a 3:00 appointment. I went ahead and checked in and lo and behold, only waited for about 10 minutes to be ushered in.

My adult kids and assorted granddaughters expected me at around 3:00 pm, and it was just 1:30. So I played with my two youngest while waiting for the older ones to get home from school.I got to watch a cd of a school play from last year that I missed.

After a birthday dinner with a birthday blackberry pie instead of cake, I headed for home, reaching Bayview around 8:30. Sucking down a beer at the Captain's Wheel, I pulled in a home with all my chores done including making my reduced Real Estate tax exemption and application for sales tax reduction.

A full day that went off like it should always, ahead of schedule and without a hitch. I now have to wait for the proverbial other shoe to drop. The law of averages suggest I'll have a bad day to balance the ever present karma. Not bad for an old codger, eh?

Standing Rock Trash

I have been following the debate over the Dakota pipeline with great interest. The Standing Rock Lakotas have been very militant about clean water and the potential damage to the  environment.

Well, we all want clean air and clean water. But using that well worn excuse for shutting down just about everything won't wash.

Banks and government entities have been boycotting not only the pipeline, but any company connected to the project.

The real big issue here is extremism in the protection of our environment. This is only justified by those people and groups that trek to the nearest project themselves showing that they are pure in these alleged violations by their own behavior.

Today, in an AP story, the cleanup of the site where all of these people and tribes camped out there left behind 835 commercial sized dumpsters of trash. In my judgment that is not the way to support a cause that charges others with the same thing. Irony? Or perhaps just a cruddy group that doesn't live the lifestyle they preach. Walking the walk is more important than talking the talk.

Cannabidiol Use Medically

"In conservative Idaho, efforts to put a medical marijuana initiative on the ballot failed last year and two years before that. The only exception is a similar supervised use of cannabidiol oil to treat seizure disorders in up to 25 children, which Otter signed as an executive order in 2015."

This is excerpted  from an AP article which appeared in today's Spokesman-Review

I know of a child that was wracked with seizures until given Cannabidol oil, AP or doctor? stopped the seizures cold. Unfortunately her doctor says it is illegal. Who is correct? The Doc? Or the ap reporter?

You can reach me by commenting or through my e-Mail, bayviewherb@gmail.com. 

State of Our Union

Only the most jaded of the left wing proponents can find fault with the president's state of union message. Earlier today, an on line poll dominated by left wing types were asked to grade Donald Trump's presidency. This with just five or so weeks into his presidency and even without his full cabinet confirmed. Every one except me gave him an F.

Tonight, President Trump gave perhaps the most scintillating speech  I have ever heard. He started by honoring black history month then condemned violence against minorities and the Jewish community. He honored our veterans especially those that have given their lives in the line of duty.

Tonight, the president flung the gauntlet down. Either help us govern, or face the voters if you don't.

There were so many positives during this speech that I cannot repeat them all. Congratulations Mr President, today you truly became a president in deed as in name.

I won't go any further with this, since either you didn't watch the address, or you did and were blinded by party politics. Either way, it was your loss.

Cape Horn Road Closed

According to Sheryl Puckett, who sent out an e-mail, Cape Horn Road is washed out east of the summit, just past Terrace Road. A stretch estimated at 30-35 feet long, 6-8 feet wide and 20-25 feet deep has closed the road.

Water lines were severed at the scene and have been shut off. Please avoid the area as it is very unstable.

Update: Cape Horn Road is now open to all traffic and the water lines are secured.

Hate Crimes

A hate crime may be thee only one where the motive outweighs the act itself. If I punch someone in the nose, I'm guilty of third degree assault, a misdemeanor. Conversely, if I utter an ethnic or racial epitaph before the punch in the nose, I'm then guilty of a felony.

Folks, punishing a person for their motive rather than the act is blatantly UN-American. I don't advocate racial or ethnic slurs, but they fall under the category of poor behavior, not felonious crimes.

Why this hasn't been tested in an appellate court  blows my mind.

In this one generation we have allowed people to tramp all over our rights of free speech. Political correctness was born from the left wing press and carried forth by the Democrats.

Freedom of speech has been voided by those that only accept that speech with which they agree with. God help us all as we swirl down the proverbial drain of a people who once was free..

Mexican Farm Workers

Back when I was a teen, way back,in the 1950's, we had no fast food outlets at all. The route to teen income was either an allowance from parents, or in Summer, the bean fields.

Flashing forward 60 years, the valley that stretched from Renton, Washington to Puyallup, Washington, some eighteen miles, was solid bean fields. There weren't enough teen age workers that could pick fast enough to overcome the youth grab ass tendencies. After all, pursuing the opposite sex was paramount in our minds, bodies, and dreams. What to do?

Braceros. Braceros were Mexican farm workers that could pick three times as fast as we slothly teens.  They were paid by the hour, since by our scale it would have cost the farmers more than they wanted to pay. First mistake, but then this was the 1960's where our sense of justice did not extend to our neighbors to the south.

From time to time I spoke with some of the Bracero's I much admired them for their ambition and productivity. The way it worked, was that the Mexican farm worker were imported for a season's work in he fields. When that season was done thy could, if sponsored,  follow the crops north to fruit orchards. etc. The bottom line here, was they were imported by employers, then taken back by them as well. When winter came, they rejoined their families in Mexico.

I do not know what happened to that program. Perhaps it was the farm workers union of the 1960's. That is a valid concern. Importing alien workers must not be allowed to undercut the living wage of resident farm workers who are here legally. Importing lesser wage workers would first not be right, and secondly, would create wars in the farm community.

Why hasn't ts occurred to our government?

Winter From Hell

Something told me this winter was going to be a challenge. It is. While 2007-2008 had more snow, the below zero weather followed by more than a foot of snow has stopped people in their tracks.

For those that still believe in the groundhog predictions, stuff it.

At this point, with the snow being rained on, we now have a foot of slush, too deep to drive through. I can only hope that the Mercantile delivers, because I'm going nowhere fast.

As it looks now, and it's 10:00 am Sunday, that the rain is going to change back to snow. I see ice ruts in our future.

As always, be safe.If you do not absolutely have to be somewhere, don't go. Besides, you get great gas mileage when not driving your car.

Total page views to date 500,333

Thank You

As I see 499,163 page views, since I started this blog 11 years ago, passing 500,00 tomorrow, I realized after reflection that I haven't thanked those most responsible for this success.

First,none of this would have happened if Dave Oliveria hadn't urged me to do this thing. Dave is ring master at Huckleberries on line, the North Idaho blog sponsored by the Spokesman-Review. When Steve Smith, former editor of the Spokesman-Review expanded to North Idaho with the Handle Extra  then the Prairie Voice, he recommended me as a correspondent for Northern Kootenai County, a position I held for about five years. When the S/R pulled in it's horns, discontinuing the Idaho editions, I was done. In my area of coverage, between Athol and Bayview,  the paper lost 60 subscribers. People that liked me to write about them and those events that were important to them.

The format for Bayviews, was designed for me by StebbiJo. The design that I still use.  She was a wealth of information and assistance during those early days where my computer skills were practically non-existent.

Then there was Bill McCrory, retired secret service officer. I must have called him at least three times a week for technical advise. He never hesitated to patiently help me over those hurdles.

While there were many more, these were the ones that made it all possible. Most likely, I will cross the half million page views tomorrow. Thank you all again. I just wish I would have done this way sooner.

Justice Gorsuch, Nominee

The nomination of 10th circuit court judge, Gorshuch came as a surprise to nobody. He was approved at the circuit court level by acclimation.

The issue of Constitutional Constructionists vs. going with the flow as progressives have favored bring up an important issue. Has society evolved and they want to go with them, or did starting with the Warren Court, push them into this evolution.

As was president Trump's remarks reflect, many voted for him solely on the basis of keeping the supreme court to the original job of following the U.S. Constitution. This is a heavy mandate. One that will bite democrats on the butt if they fail to realize why they lost and why he won.

Some in the progressive wing will commit political suicide if they ignore this. My hope is that the Senate does not have to use the nuclear option to shut down the negative voters. If they do, it will be on the heads of the recalcitrant Democrats.

Obamacare Replacement

In the world of trite phrases, one stands out today. "You can't have your cake and eat it too." Two proposed changes in government controlled health care are impossible to make together.

One is to continue to cover people with pre-existing conditions, the other is to eliminate fines for not staying in the program. The key here is adverse selection. If fines are eliminated, you will see a mass defection by young healthy people that cannot afford the insurance to begin with.

Throw in the ones who stay, most of which would be sick people without any options and you have a failed program.

One truth is we can't after creating a health plan for already sick people, throw them out on the street.Backing out of this flagrant attempt at socialization of medicine is going to be more complicated than most think.

While I'm not famous for supporting welfare programs, I see only one solution.

Go back to qualifying health and age wise as always was the previous criteria, and expand Medicaid to include those who cannot qualify for health insurance. Radical, yes, but how else can health insurance return to sane costs.

We must also reform prescription costs to match what other countries like Canada has or allow importation from other areas.

Misogynistic Behavior

Misogynistic behavior seems to be wildly bandied  about regarding the Trump victory. What is missing is those examples of really bad examples.

What should be leading the discussion would pretty much include the entire middle east, excepting Israel. Where a rape victim can be stoned to death by her family and many other outrages.

Let's look at our own examples in the presidencies:

Prior to the end  of WW11, then General Eisenhower commissioned a buxom English woman  in the U.S. Army. She was his driver... and more. (Non-citizens may not be commissioned officers in our military.)

President Kennedy routinely played with young ladies in the White House Swimming pool and of course the bedrooms as well. He even shared with his brother, Bobbie, the sexual favors of Marilyn Monroe.

Then we have Bill Clinton, who left only one child from his marriage, apparently due to his unavailability to the marriage bed.

Now, A Republican is being chastised for having an active sex life. Well, if he wants to shed Melania,  come to me, sweet thang.        

Inauguration Day

Inauguration Day has arrived. Regardless of one's political leanings, this is an historic day in our country's history. We have one of the few countries that consistently change governmentspeacefully with ceremonious atmosphere.

In a poll featured on Huckleberries on line, the Spokesman-Review's North Idaho Blog, which asked who would watch the inauguration. 36.02% said yes, 56.52% said no. I can only hope that the majority have to work and cannot watch. On the other hand, it may represent the political left, filled to the brim with Snowflakes. People that refuse to accept any other outcome than the one they prefer.

Answering strongly against representations that Trump is a racist, several black performers have stepped up to appear. In Talladaga, an all black college band will play in the parade. They weren't asked, they asked the transition peoplefor permission ot play.

These acts of patriotism suggest that plain spoken people like Trump and many of his supporters are being regularly wrongly accused of being racists by black and liberal leaders as knee jerk accusations against anyone they disagree with.

For me, I'll watch hoping tht the 50 or so congresspersons will enroll in a citizenship class soon.  If disruptive groups use violence to break up the inauguration it would be helpful for them to contemplate the act not as free speech, but as a criminal act of subversion. Sedition is the name of that game. Until authorities treat these acts of inciting to riot seriously, they will continue as unpunished crimes with no serious consequences.

Talladega Integrity

Last night, the president of Talladaga College rewrote the book on integrity, as they petitioned the Trump Inaugeration Committee to march in the Inauguration parade. Talladega is a black school, fighting back against undeserved race baiting by the left.

The following article from "The Root," pretty much says it all.

Want to know how you know you’re on the wrong side of history if you’re an HBCU president?
First, you agree for your school, Talladega College, to play at the incoming president’s inauguration—a gig so despised the lineup includes a 16-year-old second-place reality-show contestant, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (because nothing says hotness like a tabernacle choir), and the Rockettes (and rumor has some of them don’t even want to perform).

Then, you appear on Fox News’ The O’Reilly Factor and mention that the band hasn’t raised the funds needed to participate in the inauguration event. And, shortly after that appearance on Fox News, whose demographic doesn’t look anything like the students who attend your school, your GoFundMe page runneth over. Before the appearance, you barely had the $75,000 to make the trip, now you’re swimming in $500,000 and counting.

Such is life for Talladega College President Billy Hawkins, who not only wants his band to play for a demagogue’s celebration, but also believes it will be a learning experience.
“As many of those who chose to participate in the parade have said, we feel the inauguration of a new president is not a political event but a civil ceremony celebrating the transfer of power,” he said in a statement, according to Fox News.
It’s worth noting that two former slaves started the Alabama college in 1865.

So much for the so called racist, bigots and other undesirables.

Pump Overload

Continuing the story of the Sewer District pumps being overloaded, we now find out that the float homes that are tilting are exposing their discharge pumps, causing alarms to go off.

My source believes that it is not the dribbling of faucets that is overloading the system, but these pumps that are operating under duress, are pumping huge amounts of lake water into the sewer system.

While Trump is planning to drain the swamp, it appears that Bayview Water & Sewer may be draining Lake Pend Oreille. This may not be the case, but an investigation is in order, as alarms have been going off for days.

This post is available for other journalistic use, but attribution must be honored, unlike the first go around by the CDA Press.

What is needed now is transparency and action to either repair the pumps or to disconnect these float homes from their power source. I called the Sewer District phone earlier today getting a message that the office would be closed for several days.

Someone from the Sewer District needs to do more than tell people to stop dripping their faucets while hundreds of gallons of lake water may be using up the capacity. We need action to correct the problem and better communication as well.

The Sewer district in no way has the authority to order people to stop using the system as some have suggested to me.   

Float Home Roofs

I received an e-mail this morning from a friend who said, "my float home is slowly sinking from the snow on my roof. Do you know anyone who does roofs?"

Well, yes I do. If you e-mail me at bayviewherb@gmail.com or call me at 683-9107 I will refer you to someone that can help.

Roofs on float homes do not usually collapse. They just add weight which can sink the house if not removed. If you own a float home in Bayview, I strongly urge you to inspect the roofs or get someone to remove the snow. 

Since I wrote this earlier, I have identified at least two float homes that hav capsized. One in Scenic Bay Marina and one in J.D.'s Marina

Third Icy Plunge

When I said the other day that two Arctic outbreaks in one Winter is unusual, I didn't dream of a third.

But here it is. After the snow quits, if and when, Tuesday through Saturday is predicted to be: 25-5, 17-3, 16-5, and finally 20-11 for Saturday.

That is just Bayview. It will be at or below zero in other locations. While it won't be as long, we will still find it prudent to drip faucets as single digit temps can freeze everything up in a hurry.

Stay warm out there. If you are old and feeble like me or have a heart condition, or overweight, please get someone else to shovel you out.

Bayview Sewer District

I ran across a flyer put out by Neil Peck, manager of the Water and sewer department. In it, it asked all members to desist from dripping their faucets during this cold weather emergency.

What we have here is a classic case of differing perspectives. He claimed that the additional waster water was overloading the capacity of the system to handle the volume, due to multiple households dribbling water throughout the below zero temperatures.

There are two issues here. First, in the design and maintenance of the sewer system, there should have been an additional capacity planned for  in the case of extreme weather.

The other, is the duty of all homeowners and renters to safeguard their domiciles from serious damage due to frozen pipes that eventually thaw, causing  severe damage to these homes.

The bottom line with me is until the sewer district indemnifies all members from frozen pipe damage, this citizen is going to protect his property. Poor planing does not put the onus on the users.

Lake Effect Snow

It is 08:45 am here in Bayview. Not a cloud in the sky and the temperature is minus 4. But it is snowing briskly.

During the cold night, the lake steams. The collective moisture then condenses, ergo snow. We don't get a lot of lake effect snow here, like around the great lakes, but we sure do now.

By the time of the spring thaw, this winter may rank with some of our legendary winters from the past. I can't remember any winter having two arctic blasts as is the case this year.

Batten down the hatches, folks, we have yet to get through next week's snow.

Tourism seems to be at a standstill at the moment, but look at the bright side. If you come to Bayview, don't bother calling ahead. You won't need a reservation. 

New Years Day Delayed

A "leap second" will be added to this year's New Year's countdown to compensate for a slowdown in the Earth's rotation.

The extra second will occur as clocks strike midnight and a time of 23:59:60 will be recorded, delaying 2017 momentarily.

A leap second last occurred in June 2015 and this will be the 27th time it has occurred.

The change is required because standard time lags behind atomic clocks.

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) - responsible for the UK's national time scale - uses the atomic clock to provide a stable and continuous timescale.

Along with other clocks across the globe, it provides the world with its coordinated universal time.
NPL senior research scientist Peter Whibberley said: "Atomic clocks are more than a million times better at keeping time than the rotation of the Earth, which fluctuates unpredictably.
"Leap seconds are needed to prevent civil time drifting away from Earth time.

"Although the drift is small - taking around 1,000 years to accumulate a one-hour difference - if not corrected it would eventually result in clocks showing midday before sunrise."

Atomic clocks use the change of electron energy levels to tell the time.
The time created by the clocks is used in GPS location devices and is used to control the wave frequency of television broadcasts.

The International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service in France tracks the Earth's rotation and announces the need for a leap second.

(From the BBC)

Eleventh Anniversary

December, which is fast disappearing into the rear view mirror, is my eleventh anniversary writing this blog. In that time I have collected 483,028 page views to date. Thanks for contributing by followinmg my rants, writings and philosophical ruminations.

Holiday Season

Well, we've dashed through most of December, survived the bitter cold. Now, we are on the downhill side for Christmas and New Year's day.

I would like to extend best wishes from Bayviews to all that read my blog. Have a very merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Herb

School Bus Seat Belts

 


I am amazed that this is even an issue. Give it a huge Duh! If you are driving your children in the family car, you must secure them with seat belts and seat them in the back seats so they cannot be killed by air bag deployment. (Another thread for another day)

If parents are penalized by the authorities for failure to protect their children, why are school districts allowed to transport the kids in a lose peas in a pod grouping, where they can fly around the interior bouncing off other seats and worse when involved in an accident.

The horrible accident recently in Tennessee brought this discussion to a head and it needs to be addressed with safety as the rule, not cost. Are we to quantify the value of a child's life?

Recently, a mother and two children were involved in a serious accident. One child was injured, the other, thrown out of the car, died at the scene. The mother was charged with manslaughter. Why then, if she is guilty of a serious crime, are the schools not? Ironic? Yes! Double standard? Of course.

Bayview Water & Sewer

We will not be having a Bayview Water and Sewer Board meeting on December 20, 2016. We will have our next meeting on January 17, 2017, at our normal time. We will see you all next year. Have a Merry Christmas and a safe New Year.  

Thanks very much.

Richard Doney, Chairman Bayview Water and Sewer
r.doney@verizon.net

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Weather Convergence Zones

Today I am going to bitch out the U.S. Weather Bureau for inaccuracies as they regularly apply to Bayview and some extent, Athol. If you subscribe to Accuweather on line, you will notice time after time, a split in the storms.

These are caused by the storm hitting Mt. Spokane, splitting north and south and converging in the Silver Valley. Tonight, I watched Accuweather do it again, and incidentally they just repeat what the US Weather Bureau gives them.

The snow storm was supposed to hit Bayview around 7:00 pm. Then they kept backing it off, until it finally started about 8:40 pm. Switching to radar, sure enough the storm split and went north and south of us until finally the main body overwhelmed the mountain effect.

I am going to make every effort to educate the weather guessers to the reality that we have a mountain guarding our portals Wish me luck.

In the mean time, Monday the weather is predicted to turn very cold with night time temps in the single digits. Drip those faucets folks, since we are due to another several days of frigid weather. If the temps Sunday go above freezing as predicted, the powder on our roads will partially melt, and the refreeze making the Monday commute dicey. Be careful out there.

My caregiver, yes I have one now, went above the call of duty today and dug my car out. Way to go, Chrystal.

Health Issues

I doubt that most of you care a rat's ass about my health issues, but the amazing thing is that at almost 79, I haven't any recent ones if you don't count the prostate cancer about 15 years ago that fortunately, since I have Veterans Administration health care, I was able to avoid surgery in favor of radiation. Something that would have cost about $35,000 if not paid for by the VA, and ruined many facets of my potential sexuality, not to mention the inevitable incontinence  that would have occurred later in life.

Not thinking I would look good wearing diapers, I chose the route to lesser less invasive treatment. One that would have permitted me to have a normal relationship with a woman. Alas, I forgot the important ingredient. The woman.

Up until last week, nothing noteworthy has happened. Then I found out about Kidney Stones. This is probably the only way you can legally get stoned in Idaho without visiting the county jail. I had a mild attack, fortunately passing some small ones.

Tomorrow, Thursday, I will trek over to Spokane for a CT scan to ascertain whether more rocks are lurking in my nether parts.

But when I consider my health against most of the people I know, I am blessed. I joke with my health provider that when I die it will be from nothing.

I was even fortunate to avoid, (so far) the big stones that cause one to writhe upon the floor in agony. Fortunately, there are treatments to destroy these rocks lurking in the shadows and the VA will provide the treatments that most people cannot afford.

Little did I know, when back in 1960, when I mustered out of the Air Force, that I, while serving at slave wages, would eventually become rich with VA health care.I am truly blessed by a system, while not always perfect, eventually gets it right.

Found Cat

I just learned that a house cat that has been de-clawed was found on Cape horn Road. If your cat is missing, call before it freezes I do not have a description yet but will add it as obtained. 683-9107

Changes

We are undergoing heavy changes this year as we side into the holidays.

In my lifetime I have witnessed the end of World War 11, the Korean war and the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

The death of Fidel Castro and the changes that will occur in Cuba are yet to play out as well as the ultimate results following the huge Republican victory in this year's national election.

I think Raul Castro may institute substantial changes in how Cuba relates to other nations and to their own people.

The U.S. election is very unclear. In a polar like change, the Republican Party has morphed into the champions of labor and a populist base while the stunning defeat by the Democrats is still not understood by themselves as they persist in denial.

It really started many years ago as the Dems abandon labor in favor of racial politics and extreme conservationists. Looking for a new way to get recognition the manual labor force discovered Trump, a man who spoke their language. Anger with the status quo ruled the day.

The University of Washington will be playing in the final four for football national champions

There will be some static from our relationship with China and other Asian nations, not to mention the war against terrorism in the middle east. An ancient curse comes to mind as we enter these ruffled waters. "May you live in interesting times."

PS: Page views since 2005: 475,415 to date. Thank you for following this blog.