Wednesday, September 30, 2009

No Wake Zone Alert

There is currently a poll on Huckleberries online/SR asking the entire area if a no wake zone should be removed or not. The no's are leading big time. You can vote by going to: http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/hbo/ So far it is 23 votes in favor of the status quo, 2 votes for removal and 4 votes in the "I dunno" category. This poll is scrolled way down, as it was posted at 8:45 am. These are the final results as posted this morning on Huckleberries on line. Perhaps some of you will want to call this poll which included the entire area, to the attention of the board of county commissioners.

Should Kootenai County modify the no-wake zone at Bayview, if the community is solidly against such action?
Yes 12% (10 votes)
No 86% (70 votes)
Dunno 1% (1 votes)
Total Votes: 81

Monday, September 28, 2009

Oktoberfish Is Here

This is it, folks. Lube up the old reel because the annual derby in Bayview is on this weekend. Starting Friday evening at 7 pm, with an auction and free food for ticket holders at the Captain's Wheel. All proceeds, including the funds derived from the auction will be paid out to the winners. Tickets can be obtained at Ralph's Internet Cafe in Bayview, or at the Friday night auction held at the Captain's Wheel.

Entry fee is $25 per entrant, with all money raised to be given out to the various winners. You are invited to come down, bid on stuff you don't need, eat the free buffet and of course lie about the big one that got away.

Prizes are as follows:

The first fish weighing more than last year's winner, 9 pounds, 10 ounces wins $100
1st prize goes to the largest Kamloop Trout 40%
2nd prize goes to the largest Mackinaw 30%
3rd prize goes to the 2nd largest Kamloop Trout 20%
4th prize goes to the 2nd largest Mackinaw 10%

Lest we forget, the 1st prize winner also gets possession of the traveling trophy for the year. Fish & Game is still awarding $15 per head for trout and Macks, so even if you aren't one of the big winners, you can still win. It is not advised, however, to detach the head before weigh-in.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

I'm B a a a a ck!

I had a little disagreement with a trojan Horse virus last week. Thankfully, I'd already submitted my September column to the Spokesman-Review. I'm back up as of two hours ago. I'm missing some programs, as the operating system had to be reloaded. The tech backed up my files, crammed a new windows XP into the computer, then downloaded my files. Fortunately, all of my pictures, around 1500 in all and everything I've written for the last three years for publication is intact. I don't have sound though. for some reason when I opened an e-mail that needed sound, the computer went to windows media. It gave me an error message informing me that I didn't have sound installed. I guess I'll have to call my tech buddies for help again.

Wrapping up local news, the Buttonhook has closed for the season. A little early this year, but business was way down and Steve, the chef bailed out. He is now working for a restaurant ajacent to a golf course in Priest River. Steve survived several owners for the last several years.

The issue of the no wake zone may have been stalled or blocked. Chuck Waller, Gary MacDonald and a crowd of about 50 people crowed into a meeting room at the Kootenai county Administration building Monday, where the county commissioners were meeting in joint session with the Kootenai County Parks & Waterways Advisory Board. Parks and waterways seem to think that they represent all of Idaho and Spokane, Washington, too. I guess their boss needs to take a class in civics. Anyway, Chuck Waller informed me that a committee is being formed to include P & W as well as Bayview Chamber of Commerce members. Hopefully, the county will see the light.

Be aware that the No Wake Zone web site is still up. It can be accessed at: http://www.nowake.us/ Add your letters to the site and send them to the county commissioners, too. They work for us, not the other way around.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Boileau's Donnybrook


Just when we thought Summer was over and Bayview would quietly doze off, another chapter in the Bob Holland book of escapades occurred. I'll lead off by posting a well circulated e-mail that I received this morning:

Hi guys

I just got a call from Dave Nacarrato that had a float home at Boileaus. They sold it to Holland and has since filed papers on him requesting a demand in payment. So they are on the way to litigation. But what he had to tell me was that Grant and Delores Moore had sold their float home to Holland and are clearly in heavy litigation at this time.

Grant and Delores got wind that Holland is going to move the home off the front dock tomorrow morning. They in turn have called KCS ( sheriff ) dept who is suppose to meet them out there at 10:00 to make sure this is not going to happen since they have not received payment from Holland. There may be some other float home owners on the docks, and the press has been called and is aware of the situation. She would love it if you could pass the word and try and get others down there to see this mess as well.

Grant and Delores are some of the first long time float home residents, and it is a shame that it has to come to this regarding the sale of their float home.

I wish I could attend but I will be in town taking care of some business. Please pass the word to others. Someone please let Skip know as I know he would attend if he has time. If you do not know the number to get through the gate it is XXXX or just go through the patio (store) as you can get past the gates that way.

Thanks so much !

I checked with Skip Wilcox who has been monitoring the situation. He tells me that The Idaho Department of Lands has prohibited the movement of any float homes currently based at Boileau's Marina. Apparently there was a noisy confrontation on the docks between a resident and Mr. Holland. At this time, the situation has stabilized and no action will be taken by any of the affected parties, except that the former Fran's Landing was ordered to be towed out from the Kokanee spawning beds prior to the 15th of this month. That, of course, is today. We also learned that Chan is applying for a permit to operate the former Fran's Landing. He intends to move the vessel to his marina where it will once again be a restaurant. It seems though, that until Holland and Fran settle up, the title is still in her name and can't be moved except by the owner's request. Stay tuned.

Monday, September 14, 2009

Timberlake Fire District Reacts

Navy Reunion

The Navy reunion at Farragut State Park went off smoothly. Well it should, considering there have been 25 years of practice. Thirty-six hearty veterans, some past ninety year old were present and accounted for. As usual, Al Leiter held forth as master of ceremonies, with Ranger Errin Bair hosting for the park.

The weather was extraordinary and everyone had a great time. Sadly missed was Theora Lish, who had for many years enjoyed these reunions with her husband of 66 years, Charles. She passed on just two months ago.

The museum has had a makeover that has brought it up by twice the previous standards. New cabinets and showcases built by volunteer, Jim Graham, who along with his wife Jackie, hold down the fort at the brig. For the complete story on the reunion complete with veterans war stories, check out the "Handle Extra," in Sunday's Spokesman-Review.

Refusing to give in to age and infirmity, most vets were heard to say, "see you next year, and you know, I bet we do. Incidentally, a new Idaho parks Director has been chosen and will take charge Monday next. Nancy Merrill is a park professional, having served at Eagle Island state park. Although she is expected to be comfortable with the political side of things, she is known for her dedication toward the park system. In this tragic economy, it's not going to be an easy job.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Bayview's No Wake Zone


No one issue has ever united the citizens of Bayview faster, nor so completely as the threat by Parks and Waterways and the Kootenai county Commission to remove the protection within the bay of the no wake zone established over twenty years ago for the purpose of keeping the multi-use bay safe.

Citing the expense of maintaining the buoys and the alleged unfairness that Bayview has enjoyed the peace, tranquility and safety of the past twenty years, Commissioner Todd Tondee unabashedly endorsed the change, though no formal process had taken place, hearings held, or for that matter, even as much as engaging interested parties in the Bay.

This whole scene belongs in the category of, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it, our elected officials are hell bent for citizen disapproval, unless of course, they are running for office in Spokane County sometime soon.

A web site that has become very popular recently is here for your viewing and participation, should you wish to weigh in on the issue. Sheriff Rocky Watson, tongue firmly in cheek, when asked his views on the subject were, "I'm in favor of eliminating the no wake zone. We are short of organ donors." He, of course, was referring to the mix of fast power boats, sailboats, personal water craft, kayaks, inner tubes w/kids on board and kids paddling canoes.

http://www.nowake.us/

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Farragut Naval Reunion


It's that time of year again, where surviving World War two alumni of Farragut Naval Base congregate once again. This will take place this Saturday, September 12 at the park. Festivities kick off at 9:00 am with the flag raising ceremony along with a memorial service dedicated to the sailors that are gone. We lose more every year and every year, it is considered probably the last reunion. This one may well be the end.

Oktoberfish has come around again. October 2 Ralph's Cafe sponsors a fishing derby every year at this time with all entry fees going into the prize pool. Friday evening, 7 pm at the Captain's Wheel hosts an auction with the proceeds also going to the winners pool. Prize distribution can be seen on the blog if you scroll down a few posts. The derby itself is Saturday and Sunday, October 3 & 4.

The community is still roiling over the behind the scenes attempt by Kootenai county Parks and Waterways to eliminate or severely modify the no wake zone in Scenic Bay. The 5 mph speed limit in the bay has been in effect for more than twenty years with the required hearings followed by the then county commission voting to establish this low speed zone. Since then there are no re callable incidents where injuries or death have resulted from slow moving boats interacting with kids on tubes, kayaks and canoes. It appears that a slight inconvenience to out of town boaters who are in a hurry have complained, yet when asked to produce logs of such complaints, which we understand are required, show no complaints at all. A further misrepresentation by an unknown entity, informed KREM TV that the Navy is in favor of abolishing this safety net for more efficient operations. When asked directly, Alan Griffith, director of research at the base, denied that any statement of that sort was made. He went further and I quote, "My job is to protect the safety and security of the base. We take no position and can live with either a no wake zone, or without."

This is going to be an issue that will be remembered for a long time. Elected officials must on occasion take note that the folks stepped on have long memories come election day. That was proven in recent election cycles, when an almost complete turnover of commissioners occurred.

The issue raised the question who should maintain the buoys. For these twenty plus years, the county parks & waterways people have done so. Now they say they don't have the money and want out. This is not acceptable to the Bayview community. The fees from boaters that use our bay and in most cases, actually moor their boats here should more than pay for the small amount needed to retain the status quo. For those that are just learning about this issue that should have been brought up in the community long ago, write or e-mail your county commission with your concerns. Remember, however, the waterways board only represents boaters, not shoreline homeowners or marinas. Now that the issue is above water, so to speak, we, as a community can deal with it out in the open and not behind closed doors.

The Navy, not subject to county or state law, may, if they wish, do whatever they want out there, but a desire to foster good community relations has held them to compliance with local regulations. We hope that continues.

A web site has recently been created for people to use as a forum regarding this issue. You can access it at: http://www.nowake.us/

Monday, September 07, 2009

Senseless Litigation

Most of the time, I sit back and ignore the injustices that clog our court system. That was then, this is now. The E-mail that I received and replied to is exibited below:


-----Original Message-----
From: hhuseland@aol.com
To: FooterSettlement-ctg0aecacaac5ocasdedy5fklbgnamoq@dc.aol.com
Sent: Mon, Sep 7, 2009 7:34 pm
Subject: Re: OFFICIAL NOTICE OF PENDENCY OF CLASS ACTION AND PROPOSED SETTLEMENT

Now I understand why lawyers can swim safely with sharks. You absolutely have to be related. Let's start by pointing out that aol is free. One can either use it, or not. If a user doesn't like the advertising, (which is pandemic as the reason the service is free) they can sign up for a plethora of other choices. May you choke on the Filet Mignon that this action will reward you, as you relentlessly attack the successful and reward those that don't give a damn.

Class action attorneys make millions of dollars at the expense of otherwise profitable companies. They do this by gloming onto an issue, real or imagined, then inviting people that hadn't given the alleged injury a single thought, until, Aha! Here's some free money. Well folks, it isn't free. First, most of the settlements that are won, go to, guess who. The attorneys. Secondly, any megagazillion dollar settlement will reflect the prices that you and I pay for goods and services, since legal settlements are a part of the overhead.

Perhaps it is time to reform the tort system, or at least the class action racket. This will most assuredly result in lower prices for goods and services. In an egregious situation, the courts are still there, to protect you and yours from excesses and damages that are actually real. If class action suits take over the legal system, beware, because that will cause an over reaction to tort law, and the pendulum will swing too far.

Saturday, September 05, 2009

Tourist Season winding down

It always amazes me that so many sane, (normally) persons get so loose when they are recreating in the North Idaho forests. Several serious injuries have happened in the back country east of Bayview. Today, Saturday, a motorcycle accident happened in the Lakeview area. Fortunately, a private boat was available to transport the patient to MacDonald's where Timbertlake fire District EMS was on the scene. We understand the victim was transported to KMC where his condition was not considered serious.

We were unable to get more details, as the Fire district was racing from incident to another. Kind of looks like a holiday weekend , doesn't it. Somehow, perfectly intelligent people go berserk when faced with a three day week-end. Monday Morning will undoubtedly produce more insanity, with a predictable several water born injuries.

In other news, residents that hadn't heard about the plot to turn Scenic Bay into a racetrack have suddenly woke up to the fact that yet again, our elected officials are not representing our best interests. It would seem that voters should wake up to the fact that speed boaters from Spokane and other venues are not in the least interested in the community that they periodically invade for recreation. What is even more disturbing, is that apparently our own representatives in county government feel the same way. Oh, God, bring on the next election, where once again, commissioners are reminded who they represent.

Wednesday, September 02, 2009

Bayview's Pearl Harbor Attack?

Recent rumors have been floating around that the Kootenai County Commissioners are considering removing the no wake protection from Scenic Bay. A concerted attack on the status quo is taking place from several directions. One, the city of Post Falls recently was denied a no wake zone on the Spokane River. They then point fingers at Bayview saying, "If they can have one, why can't we?" Thats a pretty valid question, actually. Perhaps the county should consider doing their jobs, which is to protect and serve their constituency.

The history of the no wake zone goes way back to over 20 years ago. It was petitioned for, hearings were held and the protection granted for safety reasons. Many people in Bayview are perfectly happy to have the roar of big engines cranking up delayed until clearing the bay proper. Noise echos off the hill sides and bounces back and forth ruining the quality of life we have heretofore enjoyed. Children can currently paddle small craft and inner tubes safely. That will not be the case if commissioner Tondee gets his wish. Sailboat masts will sword fight at the marinas. Commissioner Tondee suggested to me that during storms, the wind kicks up more waves than boat wakes. I disagree. I live where I can see most of the bay and wind coming into the bay tends to push water, rather than creating large waves. Try comparing that to a speedboat doing 50 mph right down the center of the bay.

In a conversation with Tondee yesterday, he freely admitted to being in favor of elimination. A television station recently interviewed a boater from Spokane who objected to the exaggerated 20 minutes it takes to clear the bay. Those that don't live here, pay no local taxes, and don't vote for commissioners, probably don't give a rat's ass what happens to our life style here. But then why the commissioners are siding with outsiders is a puzzle. One theory is that to keep Bayview safe and sane, they would have to grant Post Falls it's reasonable request for similar protection, and perhaps other bays as well. OK, why not. If the need is there, pay the bucks. Are the commissioners going to fund more sheriff department water deputies?

It has become obvious to this blogger, that our elected leaders are taking an approach to areas like ours, that is not representative of the majority at all. When I asked the receptionist at Parks and Waterways if the rumors were true, she said she had not heard any such thing and would know, if it were true. Tondee explained that the waterways advisory board was instructed to hold a town meeting in Bayview at an yet undecided time and date. If this sounds like the skids being greased for a decision already made, it probably is.Folks, it is time to come out publicly and howl in protest if you believe this move is not warranted. It also would behoove our elected officials and those working for them, to be more dedicated to the truth.