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Huckleberries Online

Archive for August 2010

Wild Card/Tuesday — 8.31.10

Jim Brannon’s never-ending lawsuit to undo the 2009 Coeur d’Alene City Council election goes to court again today, where Judge Charles Hosack will hear a number of motions, including attorney Scott Reed’s request for summary judgment. We’re rapidly approaching the trial date for this case, in mid-September. Also, I’ll be keeping tabs on filings for North Idaho College trustee spots. Ronald ‘The Dragon Slayer’ Johnson of Rathdrum has filed so far to take on incumbent Christie Wood. Huckleberries hears that Johnson is a placeholder of sorts, willing to step aside should someone like Ron Nilson throws his hat in the ring. Now, for your Wild Card …

P.S. Obama Marks End Of Iraq Combat

President Barack Obama reads his speech for photographers after delivering a primetime televised address marking the the end of combat mission in Iraq from the Oval Office of the White House in Washington on Tuesday. Los Angeles Times story here. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

Question: Was Iraq worth it? Is our growing military presence and casualties in Afghanistan worth it?

Brannon Case Going To Trial

Sisyphus: “Any chucklebunnies know what’s going on in Hosack’s courtroom? I’m still confused how this thing ain’t dismissed yet.” Also: “HolyMarymotherofGod, I just checked the repository and I can’t recall ever seeing such a lengthy file. They’ve opened up nine of ten different court files. And Kelso filed three Amended Complaints, the last one yesterday, alleging fraud and corruption. Trial is in two weeks!! This is ludicrous. Taxpayers should be incensed that they’re footing the bill for this.”

DFO: Judge Charles Hosack is allowing this lawsuit to go onto trial Sept. 13 because he wants to be sure that there’s no question that Jim Brannon’s long-running case gets a fair hearing of six impartial jurors. However, in hearing motions today, Hosack made it clear that Brannon and his attorney, Starr Kelso, need to produce in court six individuals who voted illegally to win their case. Also, the judge denied a motion by Kelso to compel individuals living elsewhere to be in the courtroom for the trial. The judge also denied a motion by Mike Kennedy’s attorney Scott Reed for summary judgment, to dismiss the case.

Nilson, Ketchum To Seek NIC Seats

As reported her via Rumorama last week, Ronald Nilson, president of Ground Force MFG in Post Falls (pictured left), and Robert Ketchum are running as a tandem to seek North Idaho College seats in this falls trustee elections. Nilson, who led the successful campaign for the Kootenai Technical Education Campus levies, and Ketchum, the former workforce training director whose contact wasn’t renewed, filed today. Ketchum will run against incumbent Christie Wood for Seat B, while Nilson will face Coeur d’Alene attorney Ken Howard for the open Seat A being vacated by retiring Rolly Williams. In another expected move, place holder Ronald “The Dragon Slayer” Johnson dropped out of the race against Wood.

PM: Hayden Neighbors Defend Cop

The remnants of a helicopter crash, which killed two Fish & Game biologists and a pilot, are shown Tuesday morning. The helicopter came down in a driveway near the intersection of State Highway 64 and State Highway 162, just blocks from Kamiah’s Main Street and the public school complex. Idaho Fish and Game news release here. And: AP story here. (AP Photo/The Clearwater Progress, Dave Medel)

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.31.10

  • 5:21 p.m. A baby is locked in a vehicle @ 715 Sherman Avenue/CdA.
  • 4:16 p.m. A vehicle is driving n/b in s/b lanes of H95 past Fighting Creek landfill.
  • 4:37 p.m. Overdose of prescription drugs reported in 2700 block of Fruitland/CdA.
  • 3:56 p.m. Caller reports a downed power line in parking lot of Specialty Cut Meats, 7397 Government Way, Hayden.
  • 3:54 p.m. Caller reports possible drug activity in vehicle parked in 3500 block of Government Way. The driver may have put out his marijuana by sitting on it.
  • Much more below

Report: BYU Joining WCC For BBall

BYU will go independent in football and join the West Coast Conference in other sports in 2011-12, ESPN.com, the Salt Lake Tribune and the San Jose Mercury News reported Tuesday afternoon. BYU will be leaving the Mountain West Conference just as Boise State joins, leaving the league with 10 long-term members. The Mountain West may have to play football with eight teams in 2011 if Nevada and Fresno State can’t get out of the WAC until 2012. ESPN.com and the Mercury News reported that a formal announcement will be made later today. The Mountain West now has lost Utah and BYU since Boise State joined in June/Chadd Cripe, IStatesman. More here.

Question: Can you imagine the basketball games between Gonzaga & Brigham Young beginning in 2011-12 season? Wonder what Boise State, Fresno State, & Nevada are thinking now. Is new Mountain West any better than old WAC?

F&G IDs Chopper Crash Victims

A helicopter carrying two Idaho Fish and Game fisheries biologists and a pilot crashed in Kamiah between 9:30 and 9:45 Tuesday morning, leaving three dead. “I am heart broken to report that this morning we had a helicopter accident near Kamiah,” Fish and Game Director Cal Groen said. “Two employees and the pilot were on board. All three were killed. Our hearts and prayers go out to the families and to all employees as we go through this difficult time.” Two were pronounced dead at the scene, the third was taken to a hospital but was later pronounced dead. Dead are Larry Barrett (pictured above), 47 of Lewiston, who worked for Fish and Game since 1985, and Dani Schiff (below), 34 of Lewiston, who worked for Fish and Game since 1997. “This is a sad day for Fish and Game and our families,” Deputy Director Jim Unsworth said. Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise report here.

Dylan, Mellencamp, Nugent To Perform

What do you do when three titans of classic rock descend upon Spokane simultaneously  during the dog days of August to slay boredom and annihilate complacency? What else but declare a Super Rock Week! That’s just what we’ve done. Bob Dylan, Ted Nugent and John Mellencamp will burnish their respective reputations for inspiring showmanship this week (Nugent at the Knitting Factory on Sunday night, and Dylan and Mellencamp at the Greyhound Park on Wednesday). Yes, the Super Rock Trio’s power is compelling, its entertainment value is unmatched, its influence on rock as an institution overwhelming and unquestioned. Yet much like superheroes on the same team (the X-Men, the Avengers, Super Friends, etc.), Dylan, Nugent and Mellencamp each possess a singular super power that defines him as an individual/Mike Corrigan, Inlander. More here. (AP file photo from July 3: Bob Dylan performs at Hop Farm Festival in England)

Question: Got tickets?

KCSD Blasts KREM’s Bagg, Backs Off

Seems Spokane County Sheriff’s spokesman Dave Reagan has had to eat his words re: a visit by KREM report Marissa Bagg, pictured, to the Hayden home of Deputy Brian Hirzel. Hirzel is the deputy who shot 74YO Pastor Wayne Scott Creach to death at his Spokane Valley nursery last week. Reagan accused Bagg of trespassing and scaring the children in the home in an attempt to interview the family. Bloglander, the Inlander blog, provides Reagan’s first release, ripping Bagg here. Then, the Bloglander offers a follow-up post in which Reagan admits that Bagg had not trespassed as he’d been told. “The reporter, Marissa Bagg, walked to the front door of the home and knocked while her videographer filmed from the end of the walkway.  Marissa received no answer at the home and interviewed a neighbor instead.  Based on what the children told Kootenai County deputies, the kids were obviously shaken and may have overstated the event in recounting it to deputies.”

Question: Should KCSD spokesman Dave Reagan have publicly apologized to Marissa Bagg?

Keith Allred Talks To Huckleberries

DFO: Do you still think you’re a better cowboy than Butch Otter?
Keith Allred (Web site here): I’ve certainly stayed on my horse more consistently. I actually worked as a real cowboy. In 1981 the cattle market had plummeted, which meant I was the lone hand on my grandpa’s 1200-acre, 400-head cattle ranch. We wondered if we were going to lose the ranch. He had to focus on his real estate business. And asked me to run the ranch. That wasn’t dressing up and playing cowboy. The family business was on the line.

  • DFO: You are an unusual mix of cattle rancher/Mormon/Harvard prof. How do those things help in an election like this?
  • Keith Allred: It goes to heart of my approach to governing which is based in the founding father idea that broad and diverse support is the best indicator of wisdom. We live in this highly partisan era where we draw lines and say I’m one thing of the other. That’s never what the founders intended. They intended for us to take the best from all sides. That’s what I tried to do in my life. I absolutely loved running my grandpa’s cattle ranch on my own. I learned so much re: practical problem solving. I loved my experience as professor of public policy at the Kennedy School of Government. My specialty was conflict resolution.
  • See more below

New ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Lineup

The new lineup of  stars, from left, Brandy, David Hasselhoff, Jennifer Grey, Kurt Warner, Margaret Cho, Kyle Massey, Audrina Patridge, Rick Fox, Florence Henderson, co-host Brooke Burke, Bristol Palin, and host Tom Bergeron, pose for a photo in Hollywood, Calif., Monday. The two-hour season premiere of ” Dancing with the  Stars,” airs Monday, Sept. 20 at 8 p.m. ET on the ABC Television Network. (AP Photo/ABC, Craig Sjodin)

Question: Bristol Palin?

JohnA: Montana Dreamin’

JohnA: Montana was always a fun place to visit back in the old days. Growing up a few miles away in the Silver Valley, we’d take advantage of their hospitality on more than one occassion. Seltice was a short drive away, especially when their drinking age was 18 (officially, anyway). The 10,000 Silver Dollar bar was another great place (the old one, not the commercial gag at Haugen) and for a longer trek there was St. Regis and the nearby hot springs. It was cool cruising along at whatever speed felt right, which when you’re a teenager is as fast as the old beater could go.

DFO: My family has strong ties to Montana from my 5 years there. My wife & I were the first O’s to migrate. Eventually, three siblings & my mother followed. My son was born there. Two of my siblings married Montanans. Two nephews were born there. I’ll always have a fondness for the rugged Rockies out of town to the east and the independent characters that I met there.

Question: Do you have Montana ties and/or fond memories of The Big Sky state?

CdA Wannabe Campaigns On Bike

Mike (Bullard, legislative candidate for Coeur d’Alene House District 4A seat) started out walking, but that wasn’t fast enough, so he reached down into his roots for a better way. As a youth he did not have a car through high school or college. Mike traveled by bike, even dating by riding girls on his handlebars. (Not many agreed to that, but they were the best ones). Now, with a little outfitting from one of our great local bike shops, he is rolling through the precincts. So far he has knocked on doors of 2500 voters. Five precincts down, sixteen to go by November/Coeur d’Alene Ped/Bike Committee. More here.

Question: What do you make of a legislative candidate campaigning on a bicycle?

KBOI Poll: 60% Say Obama Muslim

Sixty percent of listeners who responded to an online survey by the Boise radio station say President Barack Obama is a Muslim, more than twice the figure in a recent national poll. Fifty-five percent of respondents to the non-scientific poll said Obama is a foreign-born Muslim and 5 percent said he is a native-born Muslim. Another 5 percent said Obama was Christian, but foreign born. KBOI host Nate Shelman said Tuesday afternoon that 716 respondents replied to the online poll Monday and Tuesday. During Monday’s show, Shelman discussed a Newsweek poll that found 24 percent of respondents said Obama was a Muslim/Follower of Islam/Dan Popkey, Idaho Statesman. More here.

Question: What do you make of this Boise area poll?

INW: Montana DUI Culture Under Fire

People are shown outside Red’s Bar on a late Friday night in Missoula, Mont., earlier this month.  Montana has long been a state where you could crack open a beer and drive down the interstate just about as fast as you liked. Drinking and  driving  was legal until 2003, when it was changed only under heavy federal duress, and there was no specified speed limit on major highways. But spurred by the high-profile death last year of a highway patrolman at the hands of an intoxicated driver,  Montana’s Old West drinking and  driving culture is in retreat. Story here. (AP Photo/Mike Albans)

Question: Do you miss the days that you could drive as fast as was “reasonable & prudent” in Montana?

High Noon: Moving Furniture

On Sunday, Cindy posted this exchange between her boys on her Facebook page: “Zack: ‘Stay away from Mom.’ Sam: ‘Why?’ Zack: ‘She’s moving furniture.’ Sam: ‘Ohhhh, man!’ And then: “Some folks spend a lot of money on therapy. Me? I just re-arrange my living room. Moving pianos, sofas and entertainment cabinets by myself is theraputic. By the time I’m done, I’m so exhausted I can’t remember why I was upset to begin with. You cope your way. I’ll cope mine.”

Question: What do you do to cope with stress?

Summer’s Over

At As The Lake Churns, blogmistress Pecky Cox says she knows summer’s over when she sees sights like this at a Kalispell Bay cabin on Priest Lake.

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.31.10

  • Noonish: Black Labs (11:59 report) are now in front of KMart, headed toward Costco.
  • 11:59 a.m. 2 black Labs are running n/b in s/b lanes of H95, north of Kathleen/CdA.
  • 11:44 a.m. Female on Pinetree/Hayden reports that a neighbor’s Husky “did damage” to her cat Monday.
  • 11:37 a.m. 2 males are sitting in a blue Honda Civic that’s stuck in a ditch on Charlie’s Place/Rathdrum.
  • 11:04 a.m. A truck hauling hay is 10% on fire as it enters Spirit Lake, s/b on H41.
  • 10:06 a.m. Curley’s reports that someone left a message in feces on the bathroom wall.
  • 10 a.m. A male, wearing a corduroy jacket, is passed out in a white Subaru @ Walgreens.
  • 9:59 a.m. Caller reports a dog attack at Hayden City Park.
  • 9:57 a.m. A female has locked herself in a vehicle after a physical fight w/a male in 4100 block of Player.
  • 9:32 a.m. A tan car that’s partly blocking Diamond Bar/Rathdrum has been marked. Owner who lives on road has 48 hours to move it.
  • 9:19 a.m. A person is having trouble breathing on B Street/Plummer.
  • 9:06 a.m. CPD Blue patrol officer can’t respond to call because he’s stuck in traffic as a result of road construction @ Appleway & H95.

UI Column: Obsessive Relationships

But, falling for a guy after a party, dating for a few weeks and becoming completely infatuated is not my idea of love. Classic case: Significant other is fallen for, priorities become messed up because every waking minute “needs” to be spent with them and teenage hormones kick in. But then guess what? You get sick of spending every second with each other, and the inevitable break-up comes. Then all you’re left with are bad grades, an empty wallet after all those dates because it wasn’t “romantic” enough to stay home and maybe a bad taste in your mouth after all that making out — or a cold sore. How can someone become so infatuated with another person that fast?/Dara Barney, University of Idaho Argonaut. More here.

Question: Do you mind seeing public displays of affection?

Keough Declares Conflict Of Interest

As the governor’s transportation funding task force opened its meeting this morning, one member, Sen. Shawn Keough, R-Sandpoint, took the opportunity to formally disclose a possible conflict of interest. She both made a statement and submitted a written notice, noting, “My private sector employer is the Associated Logging Contractors of Idaho. My employer may be impacted by the work of this committee. I want to formally and publicly disclose this potential conflict of interest and uphold the state Senate rules and my oath of office”/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: Should more political figures in local and state offices declare conflicts of interest?

HBO Poll: Football Turf: Red Or Blue?

The Eastern Washington Eagles are hoping their red turf proves to be as advantageous as Boise State’s blue turf has been to the Broncos. (SR file photo: Christopher Anderson)

  • Monday Poll: 60 of 102 respondents (59%) said political debates involving statewide candidates like Gov. Butch Otter & U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo aren’t important. 41 of 102 respondents (40%) said they are. One person was undecided.
  • Today’s Poll: Which Inland Northwest college has a more attractive football field?

Spokane Recovering, Kootenai Isn’t

Spokane’s economy is recovering, Coeur d’Alene’s remains in recession, according to a new analysis of June data released Monday by Moody’s Economy.com. But the Kootenai County city’s ranking for cost of doing business and cost of living are slightly better than those for Spokane, as is projected employment growth through 2011, the noted economic research firm concluded. Offseting Coeur d’Alene’s the positives are retreating home prices, which significantly exceeded national levels three years ago, says Moody’s, which looked at 392 urban markets. Spokane was ranked 149th for job growth, compared with 41st for Coeur d’Alene. Cost of business in Spokane was 81 percent of the national average, Coeur d’Alene’s was 76 percent/Bert Caldwell, SR Office Hours. More here.

Question: How will you know that the recession is over in the greater Coeur d’Alene area?

Minnick Sidesteps Guilt By Association

Sessions says his party will try to convince voters that casting a ballot for Minnick helps Pelosi and the Democrats. “We’re trying to change the agenda,” Sessions said. “Minnick had a chance to vote for John Boehner.” But so far, the GOP’s “guilt by association” tactic doesn’t appear to be working on Minnick. Which is ironic, considering how successful Republicans appear to be elsewhere as they try to lace the speaker’s agenda around the neck of incumbent Democrats like an albatross. So this may be a good year for the GOP. But at least one Democrat who appeared quite vulnerable last year could emerge victorious in one of the country’s most Republican-leaning districts/Chad Pergram, Fox News. More here.

Question (for mainstream Republicans): Are you tempted to vote for Congressman Walt Minnick this year?

Robber’s Bag: ‘Freedom Is Not Free’

The robber left with an undisclosed amount of cash and was last seen riding a gray, three-speed bicycle south on Government Way. He wore a black mask, a black bike helmet, denim shorts, a long-sleeve button-down shirt and white shoes with red “squiggly” lines.  He was carrying a white cloth grocery bag with an American flag on it and the phrase “Freedom is not free,” and was described as being in his late 20s or early 30s, police said/Meghann Cuniff, Sirens & Gavels. More photos and info re: robbery here

Question: Have you ever had a gun held on you?

Close OK w/Grenades, Not Skunks

The struggle against skunks is nothing new. Twin Falls resident Dennis Haynes recalled an encounter when he worked for former Twin Falls County Sheriff James Benham, who served from 1954 to 1967. While on patrol in the evening, Haynes noticed a baby skunk wandering into the courthouse through an open door. Haynes quickly caught the baby, then decided to take it home to surprise his wife and daughters. Haynes’ wife wouldn’t let him into the house with the skunk (which bit his finger after his barking dog startled it). He put the baby in a sack and took it to his in-laws, where they put it in a wire potato basket. When Haynes tried to stop the skunk from escaping, it sprayed his uniform and shoes/Melissa Davlin, Twin Falls Times-News. More here. (SR file photo for illustration: Jesse Tinsley)

Question: Have you ever been sprayed by a skunk?

Dennis: Glenn Beck’s America?

I’m glad Glenn Beck felt the need to put on this rally. I’m glad people came to it. Such a rally, again, shows the desire for people to have their voice heard. That’s a good thing, isn’t it? You know what a “better” thing is? Love your neighbor. As yourself. Every neighbor. But you gotta start by loving yourself. And only God’s hand on us will allow us to do that. Patriotism doesn’t move God’s heart, loving my neighbor does/Dennis Mansfield. More here.

Question: Do big rallies in Washington, D.C., like the one just staged by Glenn Beck, have a lasting impact?

Phishing Scammer Hits

I found a scam in my e-mail this morning, involving some online cad who is trying to pass himself/herself off as a friend. This is the second time that I’ve gotten something like this from a friend or acquaintance. The e-mail says: “I’m writing with tears in my eyes, I and my family came down here to (Cardiff, Wales) United Kingdom, for a short vacation unfortunately we were mugged at the park of the hotel where we stayed,all cash,credit cards and cell were stolen off us but luckily for us we still have our passports with us. I have been to the embassy and the Police here but they’re not helping issues at all and our flight leaves pretty soon from now but we’re having problems settling the hotel bills and the hotel manager won’t let us leave until we settle the bills. your contribution will go along way here. Please be so kind to reply back so i can tell you what to do and how to get some cash to us …  Am freaked out at the moment.” Be careful out there. (AP Illustration/Peter Hamlin)

Question: Have you received a scam e-mail like this one?

AM Headlines — 8.31.10

Restaurant workers from Anthony’s at Spokane Falls watch from a back service entrance Monday as a robot carries a black case that was found just south of the business on the Post Street Bridge. The case was later determined to contain a video camera. Story here. (SR photo: Dan Pelle)

‘Monster High’ Dolls Cut In On Barbie

Mattel has come out with a new product line, “Monster High,” that is proving popular. The line includes dolls, diaries, clothes and purses. Story here. (Courtesy of Mattel/MCT)

DFO: I’m going to change this post to one inviting comment rather than cutline suggestions.

Question: Would you rather buy your daughter a Barbie or one of this line of Monster High dolls?

KootCon: Confederate Flag Not Racist

Kootenai Conservative: All my relatives on my father’s side are from the South, and they would tell you it would be a grave mistake to interpret a display of the Confederate flag as a gesture of racism or sympathy with slavery. It’s a symbol of Southern pride that those of us from the North or West can have trouble understanding because there’s nothing analogous to it in our own regional cultures. A lot of people in Texas fly Texas flags for the same reason.

Question: Do you consider the display of a confederate flag to be a racist statement?

Bent V. Don: Alcohol In Public Places

Bent: While I am sure there are a few incidents, I cannot recall reading about any problems with people and alcohol at Post Falls City Parks … Alcohol is leagl in Post Falls Parks and Beaches… Didn’t see any problems at the fair this weekend either… I see more trouble in the police bar report on Sherman Avenue, where bars are allowed to sell the evil drug to people.

Don Sausser: I have nothing against anyone enjoying beer but the effects of alcohol are well demonstrated. … I don’t “buzz” and find life really good without it. Not much buzz in a diet pepsi but it taste good on a hot day. I’m glad that it works in Post Falls Park. But while I was on the NIC Board we allowed alcohol on the NIC beach. It caused so many problems that we reversed the policy after one season.

Question: Would you like to see alcohol allowed in city parks and more public events like the North Idaho Fair?

ilovecda: Fair Money Doesn’t So Far

Alright, so what did $55 buy you at the North Idaho Fair and Rodeo in Coeur d’Alene this past weekend? As it turns out, not much. Here’s the Lovely Family’s tally:

  • 1 Lemonade (to share)
  • 1 kid’s sized hotdog, minus the bun
  • 1 gyro with too much lettuce and not enough meat
  • 2 corn dogs
  • 12 tickets for the kiddie rides

Forget the fact that the folks at Huckleberries Online agree that MB is the cutest kid in North Idaho (wink, wink) and we got tickets to get in for free, the Lovely Family is still down $55. Yowza! I remember the days when I could go the fair with little more than $0.25 in my pocket and walk away with a giant stuffed animal, two dead goldfish, cotton candy, puke on my clothes from all the rides, passing out on Dad’s shoulder as he carried me into the house/ilovecda.com. More here.

Question: How much did you spend at the North Idaho or Bonner County fairs? Do you consider it to be too much?

Ramirez: Striving For Perfection?

Michael Ramirez/Investor’s Business Daily

Wild Card/Monday — 8.30.10

Ready or not, we’ve moved past the North Idaho Fair & Bonner County Fair. Which means that the fall campaigns for county, legislative, statewide, & congressional offices are officially upon us. If you didn’t realize that, you weren’t paying attention to the political ads last week from Spokane television stations. I flinched the first time I heard an attack ad in the Murray-Rossi campaign. Unfortunately, we’re also subject to Washington’s mudslinging as a result of our proximity to the Washington state line. Sigh. While I go in search of covering for protection from mud splatter, I’ll play this Wild Card …

P.S. Up, Up, & Away

Jordan Hooton, of Daingerfield, Texas, gets thrown from  Smoke  Signal during the  Kitsap County Fair & Stampede in Silverdale, Wash. (AP Photo/ Kitsap Sun, Larry Steagall)

McGregor: Enlightenment Tax

Maybe people are simply adjusting. Anecdotes about the high cost of education are everywhere — a recent New York Times Magazine story details the plight of 20 somethings too broke to move out of their parents’ basements. Young people — and, often, mom and dad — are finishing college with unprecedented debt loads. To put it in the visceral parlance of contemporary politics, it’s like a tax on trying hard. By choosing not to fund higher ed, our leaders are over burdening the newest recruits to the working class — and potentially crippling our economic future. Some are giving up. According to a recent Delta Project report on higher ed, more college students today are abandoning their education, and low-income applicants are finding it particularly hard to take those first steps toward realizing the American Dream/Ted S. McGregor, Inlander. More here.

Question: Can you afford to send your children to college?

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.30.10

  • 6:02 p.m. Caller reports a black-and-silver boat racing on Fernan Lake.
  • 5:47 p.m. A pack of alpacas are standing on H97 & M/P 91 (Beauty Bay Hill grade).
  • 5:09 p.m. A female who had been unconscious in a vehicle in front of McDonalds on H41/Rathdrum now is awake and screaming.
  • 5:06 p.m. Possible structure fire @ 10176 Cliffhouse/Hauser Lake.
  • 4:56 p.m. Female reports that she took home a jacket that was left on a bike near Hancock Fabrics, Prairie Shopping Center/Hayden, when she couldn’t locate the owner.
  • 4:14 p.m. Oak Crest Park on Ramsey Road/CdA reports unwanted salesman of cleaning supplies in mobile home park.
  • 4:03 p.m. A vehicle has hit a pedestrian @ 4th & Locust/CdA.
  • 4:02 p.m. Motorcyclists are popping wheelies on I-90 @ Spokane Street/Post Falls.
  • 4:01 p.m. Juveniles are causing problems in Head Start alley, 821 Spokane/Post Falls.
  • More below

PM: Mourners Recall Valley Pastor

North Idaho Fair manager Chris Holloway, left, is shown with the winner of the quilt raffle: Anita Price.  The reversible quilt measures 5-foot-2 wide and 6-foot-7 tall. It was handcrafted by members of the P’s & Q’s Quilt Group from Community United Methodist Church of Coeur d’Alene. And you can find the name and photo of the dollhouse raffle winner here. (Courtesy of North Idaho Fair Facebook page)

Reward Offered In Fair Bomb Incident

Crime Stoppers of the Inland Northwest is offering a cash reward for information leading to the arrest of the person responsible for placing an explosive devise inside of a briefcase. The briefcase was discovered at 4:30 p.m. Friday in a grassy swale on 2nd Street, south of Kathleen Ave. It later was detonated by the Spokane County Bomb Squad. A note was attached to the briefcase that said “Warning, do not touch, boom.” The briefcase was located about one block south of the Kootenai County Fairgrounds, off of Kathleen Avenue, where thousands of people were attending the North Idaho Fair. Any fair goers parked in the area are asked to report any suspicious activity they saw. Anyone with information on this crime is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 667-2111, toll free at 866-667-2111. Callers are asked to use a code name or number and do not have to use their own name to be eligible for a reward.

APhoto Of The Day — 8.30.10

A supporter of Gustavo Rojas wears a pin depicting Rojas in Caracas,  Venezuela. Rojas, a candidate for for  Venezuela’s National Assembly Sept. 26 elections, is using an unusual campaign fundraising technique: raffling off a  breast enlargement surgery. You write the cutline. (AP Photo/Cecilia Serrano)

Top Cutlines:

  • 1. As a show of support from the dairy industry, A Rojas fan quells rumors that he’s “Lactose Intolerant” — Soaf.
  • 2. With his motto “If you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them both”, Rojas keeps constituents largely abreast of his campaign donations — JohnA.
  • 3. A supporter of Gustavo Rojas, does a little amateur pole dancing in the streets of Caracas, while keeping the crowd abreast on the issues and milking the routine for all it was worth — Kage Mann.
  • HM: Charlie & Herb

The Hill: R’s Conceding Minnick Win?

In a story in The Hill evaluating the growing strength of the Republican Party in this fall’s elections, reporters Shane D’Aprile and Sean J. Miller write that the race between Rep. Walt Minnick, D-Idaho, and Republican Raul Labrador has moved from “toss-up” to “lean Democratic.” The report continues: “Minnick has taken to Twitter to highlight the National Republican Congressional Committee’s reluctance to buy TV ad time in his once-targeted district. After party-favorite Vaughn Ward lost the primary to Raul Labrador, Republicans seem to have abandoned their ambition of unseating the conservative Democrat.” The rest of the story here.

DFO: A person in the know in Kootenai County Republican politics tells me that s/he’s thinking about voting for Minnick — as are a number of his/her Republican friends — thinking they’d rather have the incumbent for 2 more years than risk having a Bill Sali-like representative for the foreseeable future. Dunno if this person has ever voted Republican in a 1st Congressional District race. But it doesn’t bode well for Labrador.

NIdaho Blogs: Pumpkins Herald Fall

“We still have a fair amount of summer left but you know Fall is approaching in North Idaho when the pumpkins are maturing and the corn crop is ready to harvest,” posts Sunny/Bent’s Beer Garden. More here.

HucksOnline numbers (for week of Aug. 22-28): 50,923/31,020

EOB: Court Expedites Big Rig Appeal

The Idaho Transportation Department has joined ConocoPhillips in appealing to the Idaho Supreme Court a local judge’s decision to revoke its permits for four huge truckloads of oil refinery equipment to travel winding U.S. Highway 12 from Lewiston to Montana, saying the decision could “end up restricting commerce and limiting business opportunities.”    Meanwhile, the high court granted a motion from ConocoPhillips to expedite the court appeal, rather than take the usual time - averaging 450 days - to hear a civil appeal. However, it set oral arguments for Oct. 1. That’s expedited for a Supreme Court appeal, but it’s not quick enough to allow Conoco to move the four giant shipments before paving starts on the second lane of the Arrow Bridge on Highway 12/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: Are you pleased that the Idaho Department of Transportation has joined ConocoPhillips in appealing judge’s decision banning its rigs on scenic Highway 12?

Idaho Scenics: ‘A Little Pink Sky’

I’ve wanted to post this terrific photo by Linda Lantzy/Idaho Scenic Images since I first saw it last week. Post Linda: “It felt good to get out tonight. It seems like it’s been awhile. Just a little pink sky over the lake.”

Quotable Quote — ‘Rapiscan’

Idaho state Sen. Shawn Keough, R-Sandpoint via Twitter: “Decided that the name of the airport’s new full body scanner ‘Rapiscan’ is Freudian given what it shows!”

Question: Have you endured the new full body ‘Rapiscan’ at an airport?

Johnson Files Against NIC Trustee Wood

Ronald G. Johnson of Rathdrum, who calls himself “The Dragon Slayer,” has filed to run against incumbent Christie Wood in the North Idaho College trustee election for Position B, according to County Clerk Dan English. Wood has already filed for re-election. Also, Coeur d’Alene attorney Ken Howard has filed for the vacant trustee seat being vacated by Trustee Rolly Williams. Filing deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Ex-KCSDeputy Hirzel Shot SV Pastor

The Spokane Valley Police officer who fatally shot a pastor and greenhouse owner last week was identified Monday as Deputy Brian Hirzel. Spokane Police spokeswoman Jennifer DeRuwe said Hirzel has been with the Spokane Valley Department for two years. The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office contracts with the city of Spokane Valley to provide deputies to serve as police officers. Previously, Hirzel had worked at the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office in Idaho and as an officer in Cathedral City, Calif., which is near Palm Springs. DeRuwe – who is handling news releases because of a critical incident protocol between departments – offered no new information about why Hirzel shot Pastor Wayne “Scott” Creach outside his business, the Plan Farm at 14208 E. Fourth Ave/Thomas Clouse, SR. More here.

Toad @ 7: An Inland Northwesterner?

Toadman: This is why we generally come to hike Stickman’s hill in the fall. It’s quiet. Also, though we’re from Spokane, and have only lived in the area for seven years this September, we don’t feel like outsiders anymore. We feel we’ve become locals. What do you think? Seven years = Inland Northwest local, or no?

Question: Do you become a native Inland Northwesterner in 7 years?

Road Kill, Mink Style

A mink runs past dead animals on a road in Hiliodendro, near the northern Greek city of Kastoria earlier today. More than 50,000 minks were set loose in the area on Friday and Saturday, after raids by suspected animal rights activists on two fur farms. Greece’s The National Fur Breeders’ Association said most of the released animals are likely to die, adding that the cost to the farm owners could pass Euros 1 million ($1.27 million) despite an effort to recover the animals. (AP Photo/Nikolas Giakoumidis)

JohnA: Out, Out Damn Tourist

JohnA: I’m a Chamber of Commerce guy when it comes to tourists, as I know the economic impact they provide to the area. It’s just that by the end of August we’re ready for a break from the hordes. We don’t mind sharing paradise but it’s great when we finally get our peace and quiet back. That’s our September reward, and like many locals, we look forward to it.

DFO: I’ll confess that I’m tired to death of having tourists all over our waterfront and downtown. Mrs. O & I drove thru downtown Cda en route to our customary walk along the north shore. I’d thought that the deluge of tourists had subsided because we were turning the corner to fall. But downtown was packed. The waterfront less so. We’ll have to wait for Labor Day.

Question: Are you tired of tourists and visitors overrunning the waterfront?

Hedberg: 1 Plump Human = 2 Skinny 1s

Scientists report that a favorite food of many bears, nuts from whitebark pine cones, is scarce. So as grizzlies look to put on some major pounds in preparation for the long winter ahead, they will be looking for another source of protein - meat - and running into trouble along the way. Wildlife managers already report bears coming down off the mountains and into areas frequented by hunters, berry pickers and hikers. “Pack your bear spray,” said grizzly researcher Chuck Schwartz with the U.S. Geological Survey. “There’s going to be run-ins.” The reason to lose weight? If bears are looking to make a meal of a human it stands to reason the fatter you are, the more bear cubs you would be able to feed. Any intelligent grizzly would know that one plump human is worth at least two skinny ones/Kathy Hedberg, Lewiston Tribune. More here.

Question: Have you ever carried bear spray while camping, hunting, or hiking in bear country? Or do you prefer a handgun?

Hall: Don’t Be Put Off By Accents

We socially twitchy human beings tend to judge other people not only by the color of their skins but by the weird accents of their voices. For instance, I know a man who speaks upper crust English in the same accent as former English Prime Minister Tony Blair. But that’s misleading. My friend is a man of ordinary interests no smarter than most of us. But when you hear him speak, the accent tends to make a person think the speaker has some giant brain. We don’t often experience that accent around here. But when we hear it on television, it is often some brainy British politician, philosopher or scientist. So we tend to equate that accent with smart people, whether they are or not. On the other hand, President Lyndon Johnson and President George W. Bush - two men with down-home Texas accents - sound like uneducated hicks to my bigoted ear/Bill Hall, Lewiston Tribune. More here.

DFO: My father-in-law was a sharp man who taught math and science in high school. However, he had an accent that made him sound as though he came from the streets of Brooklyn. Which he did — and an orphanage, to boot.

Question: Do you form opinions of others as a result of their accents?

INW: WTC Beams Arrive In Silverdale

Bulls riders leave the arena as steel  beams from the World Trade Center from Sept. 11, 2001, lie on a trailer behind during the  Kitsap County Fair & Stampede in Silverdale, Wash., Sunday. The beams, which were put on display in two or three Kootenai County locations earlier this month (see Kerri Thoreson’s photos here), will become part of a Kitsap County, Wash., memorial. (AP Photo/ Kitsap Sun, Larry Steagall)

High Noon: Idahoan Paul Wins Emmy

Aaron  Paul, left, a graduate of Boise’s Centennial High School and native of Emmett, holds his award for outstanding supporting actor in a drama series and Bryan Cranston holds his for outstanding lead actor in a drama series, both for their work on “Breaking Bad,” during the 62nd Primetime  Emmy Awards Sunday in Los Angeles. Story here. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Question: Did your favorite actor or show win an Emmy last night?

Wright: Nothing Yet On UI Vs. WSU

Rumor has it that the University of Idaho and Washington State University are discussing a renewal of football games in 2013. But Josh Wright (follow his Twitter here), who covers the Vandals for us, reports: “Vandal AD Rob Spear told me, ‘Nothing is set.’ The series was suspended after ‘07.”

Question: Would you like to see the football teams of the University of Idaho and Washington State University renew their football rivalry ASAP?

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.30.10

Coeur d’Alene police provided the media with a series of photos re: the suspect in the robbery of Wells Fargo Bank that occurred around 6 p.m. Friday, including the one above. KREM2 has other photos of the individual who got away on a three-speed bike here.

  • 11:52 a.m. Caller reports that two pieces of wood fell out of an unsecured load in a trailer pulled by a pickup that entered the Ramsey Road transfer station. Also, an item from the load hit his vehicle.
  • 11:31 a.m. A driver talking on a cell phone swerved all over road before pulling into 3120 Ironwood Place.
  • 11:02 a.m. Resident @ 8785 Hillview/Hayden reports that someone in a green Jeep hit his mailbox and drove off.
  • 10:57 a.m. Someone at U.S. Bank call center @ Seltice Way & old Atlas/CdA is suffering chest pains.
  • 10:50 a.m. Hayden man has questions re: his son wrestling w/his roommate’s daughter.
  • 10:41 a.m. A suspicious female in a green Pontiac Grand Am is parked in Athol city park, along 3rd, apparently watched children.
  • 10:19 a.m. Maintenance worker at North Idaho College reports “everybody’s triple parked and nobody can get out of here” @ sewer plan overflow parking lot.
  • 10:18 a.m. Brad has questions re: how many ducks & chickens his neighbor can have.
  • 10:11 a.m. Dalton Gardens resident reports neighbor’s 2 dogs killed some of her chickens over the weekend.
  • 10:02 a.m. A child has his foot caught in a bicycle frame (no location given).
  • 10:01 a.m. Student needs a jump start for his red Toyota in NIC library parking lot.
  • 9:53 a.m. An irrigation sprinkler is spraying onto H41 @ Wyoming/Rathdrum.
  • 9:39 a.m. Caller has spotted a Ford Torino rolled on its top off road @ Hidden Valley & Starrina roads/Hauser.
  • 9:19 a.m. H&W worker reports that mother and two teen children — 18 & 16 — are missing.
  • 9:19 a.m. Graffiti reported @ I-90 & Government Way/CdA.
  • 9 a.m. A Subaru station wagon has rolled over @ H95 & Garwood.
  • 8:30 a.m. Hazmat team has been called to gas spill @ Chevron station, Government Way & Kathleen/CdA.
  • 8:17 a.m. CPD Blue is checking on transient @ H95 & Northwest Blvd underpass.
  • 8:16 a.m. Caller reports theft of irrigation equipment off Idaho Road/Post Falls.
  • 8:11 a.m. Caller reports that a pickup is pulling a trailer that is leaking raw sewage onto road (unknown location). Pickup & trailer has just pulled into gas station.

HBO Poll: Lake City To Win IEL

  • Weekend Poll: 31 of 87 respondents (35.6%) predicted that Lake City High will win the 5A Inland Empire League football championship this year. 30 of 87 (34.5%) guessed that rival Coeur d’Alene High would capture the title. 20 of 87 (23%) picked Post Falls to emerge as champs, while only 8 of 87 (7%) said the Lewiston would.
  • Today’s Question: Are political debates involving statewide incumbents like Butch Otter & Mike Crapo important to you?

Jeanne: Bigotry Mars Nice Lewiston Day

I was walking up and down Lewiston’s Main Street Saturday afternoon, having a great time looking at all of the (Hot August Nights) custom cars and wishing one or two of them were mine. Then a bigot opened his mouth, and a nice day was instantly downgraded. While I walking along looking at cars, a man seated along the curb pointed at the T-shirt worn by another man who was looking at cars. The seated man made a comment of approval about the Raiders. That was his team. Then he said, loud enough for everyone in the nearby crowd to hear, “Now that they got rid of that watermelon carrier, they’re going to the Super Bowl.” The guy was referring to former Raiders quarter JaMarcus Russell. Russell was, by all accounts, a total failure at the job. Indeed the Raiders dumped him. Russell is black, which is why the guy said what he said. But Russell isn’t bad because he’s black; he’s bad because he’s bad/Jeanne DePaul, Virtual Deadlines, Lewiston Tribune. More here.

DFO: I had a similar experience Sunday. My wife & I were walking along the north shore, west of City Park, when that guy a U.S. flag and a confederate flag flapping from his beater pickup bed drove past. A half hour later, we saw an African-American female running along Locust Avenue. I hoped that she would never see the jerk in the pickup.

Question: When did you last encounter racism on the street?

Richert: Good News On Debate Front

Before the May GOP primary, I took Gov. Butch Otter and Sen. Mike Crapo to task for skipping out on debates aired statewide on Idaho Public Television. The prospects are looking better this time around. Crapo’s campaign has tentatively agreed to an Oct. 19 debate — although the Senate’s adjournment date could pose a potential glitch. Otter’s camp has agreed to an Oct. 28 debate, just five days before the Nov. 2 election. According to the conventional wisdom, debates (help) a challenger by providing a shared podium with an incumbent. This is why incumbents often have considerable incentive to limit the number of debates — since the office holders already hold the edge in name identification and, generally in fund-raising/Kevin Richert, Idaho Statesman. More here.

Question Why do you think incumbents Butch Otter & Mike Crapo are willing to debate this year?

Ex-Vandal Komar Catches 6 Passes

Tennessee Titans cornerback Ryan Mouton (29) shakes hands with Arizona Cardinals wide receiver  Max  Komar (18) at the end of NFL football practice last week in Nashville, Tenn. The Cardinals and Titans held a combined practice two days after playing a preseason game against each other. On Saturday night, Komar, a former University of Idaho Vandal, made six catches for 76 yards, including big catches on the final drive as Arizona beat Chicago 14-9. More here. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)

Iupati Gets Rave Reviews In Preseason

Throw all the small-school talk out the door. Niners left guard Mike Iupati is as NFL-ready as any rookie offensive lineman in the league. Just ask Raiders coach Tom Cable, who went out of his way to congratulate Iupati after the 49ers’ 28-24 victory over the Raiders in Saturday night’s exhibition game at the Coliseum. “He’s going to be a good one,” said Cable, a former Idaho offensive lineman, just like Iupati. Pro Bowl running back Frank Gore agrees, citing the monstrous hole Iupati forged on his 49-yard carry up the middle on his first touch of the preseason/David White, San Francisco Chronicle. More here.

Question: Are you going to follow the 49ers this year to watch ex-Vandal Mike Iupati play?

Ex-Zag Turiaf Happy With Knicks

When the Knicks, not unpredictably, lost out in the LeBron James me-stakes, Turiaf came into play. New York launched its latest rebuild with a sign-and-trade of forward David Lee to the Warriors, bringing Anthony Randolph, Kelenna Azubuike and Turiaf in return. Earlier, the Knicks had signed free agent Amar’e Stoudemire, and since have added guards Raymond Felton and Roger Mason to the makeover. “I feel fantastic about people wanting me to be part of their organization,” Turiaf said, “part of the movement. I can’t wait to get started on the East Coast. I’m not looking forward to the weather, but the basketball side is something else. I thank the Warriors for what they did for me and the fans and wish them nothing but good luck – and I can’t wait to play them twice. “This has brought happiness to my life”/John Blanchette, SR. More here.

  • Former Gonzaga men’s basketball standout  Ronny  Turiaf  acknowledges the audience and fellow 2010 graduates May 9  in Spokane.  Turiaf received his degree in sports management. (AP Photo/The Spokesman-Review, J. Bart Rayniak)

Question: Who is your all-time favorite Zag?

Doug Clark Sings ‘Stand By Your Klan’

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“Stand by your Klan” by Doug Clark

“No matter what you hear, no matter what you think, no matter what you feel, you have to say the following: ‘No, that is not my husband’s voice,’ ” Steele said. “Then, like a rhinoceros in the road, you have to stand your ground and refuse to say anything but that.” That paragraph prompted one of my editor pals to suggest a makeover of the old Tammy Wynette hit “Stand By Your Man.” Well, you know me. When my editors say, “Jump,” I say, “Show me the cliff!” Steele was back in the news this week over a lovey-dovey birthday card he sent to his wife. Allegedly. The card violates a no-contact order, according to a federal prosecutor. So Friday found me in a recording studio with Joe Brasch, my bandmate and musical co-conspirator/Doug Clark, Spokesman-Review. More here.

Question: What do you think of Doug Clark’s latest spoof song, “Stand By Your Klan”?

AM Headlines — 8.30.10

Sunday evening, reports photographer Don Sausser, a major float party assembled at City Docks. Hundreds, with some people in tuxes, crossed the bridge to board the Coeur d’Alene and Mish-an-Nock coupled together while on the other side were three additional tour boats tied together. Before the first bunch boarded in came 18 school buses with another throng of folks loading. A banner said: “Gonzaga Student Association.

Trish: Wolf Spider That Wouldn’t Die

On her Facebook page, Trish Gannon writes: “Worst thing you can hear while your son is killing a monstrous wolf spider for you? “My god, how come you’re not dead yet?” I’ll have nightmares that a truly ticked off spider is determined to get in the house for revenge.

Question: My wife spotted the first of the wolf spider invasion this weekend — an arachnid that had gotten into our garage. Have you found any wolf spiders in the house yet?

Maggie’s Ghost Still Haunts Jameson

Maggie the Ghost needs to get busy throwing plates and shattering coffee cups. Legend has it that a woman named Maggie checked into Wallace’s Jameson Inn decades ago and never really checked out. Apparently, she waited patiently in her room for months and months for her rich suitor to return from a trip back east, and he never did and though she finally gave up and left the hotel in life, in death she has returned to wait it out for eternity. I can’t blame Maggie for being in a rotten mood, but unfortunately her bad vibes seem to have put a curse on the service level and quality of food in the old Inn’s restaurant/OrangeTV, Get Out! North Idaho. More here.

Question: OTV had a bad experience trying to get a hamburger and then nachos at the Jameson in Wallace. Have you had a better experience eating at the Jameson?

Hucks: Beer Overrules Stink Eye

The assignment was simple: Go to Costco and buy a gray cooler on wheels so your husband could carry your 4-year-old while rolling the device, with his brewskis chilled to a perfect 45 degrees inside, to the Festival at Sandpoint this month. Only Maryellen Garasky hadn’t figured on a close encounter with Costco’s “The Cooler Nazi.” The problem started when she discovered that the coolers were blue instead of gray. So Maryellen whipped out her cell phone to text a photo to her husband, to see if the color mattered to him. Only to hear the Cooler Nazi shriek: “You can’t take pictures in Costco!” Maryellen said she tried to explain her dilemma, but was admonished twice more: “You can’t take pictures in Costco!” So Maryellen backed off, bought a $10.26 bottle of Columbia Valley wine and munchies, and headed to the checkout counter – only to see Cooler Nazi, stationed by the blue coolers, giving her the stink eye/DFO, Huckleberries Online. More here.

Question: When did you last have a bad experience shopping at a local store?

Athol Motorcyclist Dies In H95 Crash

An Athol motorcyclist was killed after he crashed and rolled his bike along Highway 95 @ Homestead Road/Bonner County at 7:30 p.m. Saturday. Mason L. Justin, 36, was northbound on his Harley Davidson when dor an unknown reason he crossed both southbound lanes and crashed off the west side of the road, rolling his motorcycle. Justin was not wearing a helmet and was deceased at the scene. This crash is still being investigated by the Idaho State Police.

Weekend Wild Card — 8.28-29.10

Looks like all hell broke loose as I was leaving work last night. I recorded that a suspicious device was found at 5:50. But I didn’t realize at the time that it was that briefcase near the fairgrounds, that tied up things for fair goers who parked nearby for hours afterward. And I turned off the scanner a few minutes after 6 o’clock, so I didn’t hear about the bank robbery at Wells Fargo — my bank — until I saw Christie Wood’s news release a couple of hours later when I checked my e-mail. Then, there was that attempted robbery allegedly by a gang of thieves that was thwarted by a couple who live near Coeur d’Alene High earlier this week. What’s this town coming to? We’re getting as bad as Spokane, as far as crime goes. With that happy thought, I’ll post the Wild Card …

Christa: A Blue Ribbon The Hard Way

Hazel Christa came home with several ribbons from the North Idaho Fair, including one for this black-and-white portrait. But she had to work for it. On Facebook, she explains: “We noticed in the B&W Child category, there was a 1st and 3rd place but no 2nd place awarded. My picture did not have a ribbon on it. We asked about the 2nd place ribbon. The attendants came and reviewed the cards and determined that A) no 2nd place had been awarded (possibly due to oversight) and B) the picture wi…th the 1st Place ribbon had been misidentified. The actual 1st Place entry? My picture of my son. I actually kissed Ken Cook the Superintendent. As he stood in front of his wife, Elaine Cook, the other Superintendent.”


Denise: Rekindling Friendships At Fair

On her Facebook page, Denise Durflinger writes: “went to the NI Fair yesterday. What a gorgeous day…partly cloudy with temps around 70. Saw so many old friends — Don & Kathy, Amy, Sandy, Linda. Ate so much, thought I was going to burst! German dog with fried onions, garlic french fries (from the Lions Club booth - YUM!!!) funnel cake. Orange julius, diet pepsi, huckleberry shake!!! Hey - the fair only comes around once a year!

Question: How important to you is going to the fair to run into old friends that you haven’t seen in awhile?

Kershner: I Really, Really Do Like Canada

We were talking with a nice couple from Calgary last weekend when the husband asked, “Do you really like Canada or are you just saying that to be polite?” Awww. That’s so Canadian. We don’t say things to be polite. We’re Americans. So for me, at least, the answer is yes, I really do like Canada. And I am particularly enamored of that entire country right now, having just returned from a trip to Cranbrook, Fernie and Waterton Lakes National Park (the park that sits atop Glacier National Park like a tuque)/Jim Kershner, SR. More here.

Question: Do you really like Canada — and Canadians — or are you just being polite?

SR: Delaying Info On Tragedy Ill-Advised

Law enforcement leaders tell us that officers don’t get special treatment. Some tell us that they ought to be held to a higher standard. But the rules are clearly different when one of them is involved in a fatal incident. It is department policy to forgo an interview with an officer for the first 48 hours. Policy also dictates that an officer not be named for the first 72 hours. That’s why the details are sketchy. But Spokane police Maj. Scott Stephens said no further information will be released until next Thursday, which is more than a week after the incident. This only raises more questions. When will the shooter be interviewed? Will he or she be named once the 72 hours has passed? If not, what’s special about this case? What about witnesses? Are there any witnesses?/Spokesman-Review Editorial Board. More here.

Question: Is the officer involved in the shooting of a Spokane Valley pastor/nursery owner getting special treatment by investigating agency?

Richert: Mormon Crapo’s Brewery Tie

A s we roll into one of those precious last weekends of pre-election-season summer, there is something fitting about an item that blends politics and beer. Sen. Mike Crapo will tour a Pocatello craft brewery today, as he touts his bill designed to give a tax break to small breweries. On May 11, the Idaho Republican was one of four original co-sponsors of a bill to cut the breweries’ federal excise taxes in half. The bill now has 24 co-sponsors, which improves its prospects of making its way onto the Senate docket. Eight co-sponsors come from the West’s barley belt, but it’s still a curious bipartisan coalition. How else can you describe a bill that brings together the likes of Crapo and Sen. John Kerry, D-Mass.? Crapo is an unlikely champion for microbreweries, as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which disapproves of drinking. But - as Crapo explained in May to Statesman reporter and beer blogger Patrick Orr - he sees the issue as “a business, not a moral, decision”/Kevin Richert, Idaho Statesman. More here.

Question: What do you make of U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo, who is a Mormon, leading the charge to win a tax break for small breweries?

Transient Jailed In Dragon House Fire

A Coeur d Alene Police Department officer was on routine patrol when he noticed flames in height of excess of 50 feet coming from behind the Dragon House at 512 East Appleway.  When the officer pulled into the parking lot, he found 36-year-old transient Andrew McLean Wanczak standing in the parking lot staring at the flames.  Wanczak told the officer he set the fire because he was cold. Coeur d Alene Fire Department put out the fire to prevent further damage. The fire set by Wanczak caused damage to landscaping/fencing of the Coeur d Alene Inn, three vehicles of hotel guests, overhead wires for phone and cable which caused interruption to the hotel and a small amount of flame damage to an adjacent building.  Estimated damage cost at this time of in excess of $20,000 dollars. Wanczak was arrested and transported Kootenai County Jail where he was charged with 1st degree Arson/Christie Wood, Coeur d’Alene police spokeswoman.

Ramirez: Miss Universe/Druglordville

Michael Ramirez/Investor’s Business Daily

T-Wolves, Viks Dominate Openers

Throughout preseason camp, Lake City football coach Van Troxel emphasized starting fast. Troxel’s Timberwolves provided the fresh beginning Friday he desired after back-to-back miserable starts. Lake City rolled to a pair of touchdowns in the first two quarters, cruising to a 41-7 win over Lakeland in a season opener at Corbit Field in Rathdrum. The Timberwolves piled up 456 yards total offense and the defense was equally effective. A 50-yard interception return by safety Beau Martz put LC up 14-0 barely 5 minutes and 31 seconds into the game/Greg Lee, SR. More here./Christian Caple, Moscow-Pullman Daily News

Gunman Robs CdA Wells Fargo

Coeur d’Alene Police and FBI agents are investigating the robbery of Wells Fargo Bank, Appleway & Government Way, that occurred at 6 o’clock today. Witnesses stated a male suspect entered the bank and threw cloth re-usable grocery bags at the tellers. The suspect demanded they hurry up and fill them. The male suspect waived around a large caliber handgun. He then left the bank with an undisclosed amount of cash. He was last seen riding a grey three speed bicycle, south on Government Way. His description is as follows: Male, late 20’s to early 30’s, wearing a black mask, a black bicycle helmet, jean shorts, a long sleeve button up shirt, white tennis shoes with red squiggly lines. His white grocery bag had an American flag design on it/Christie Wood, Coeur d’Alene police spokeswoman.

Possible Bomb Found Near Fairgrounds

A suspicious briefcase found near the Kootenai County Fairgrounds this evening contained some kind of explosive device. The briefcase was reported at 5:50 p.m. by passersby who spotted it while they were heading to the North Idaho Fair a couple blocks away, said Coeur d’Alene Police Sgt. Christie Wood. The case had the words “Warning do not touch” and “Boom” written on it in black ink. It was left in a grassy area near the sidewalk on Second Street, south of Kathleen Avenue and behind the Great Floors store on Government Way. The Spokane County Bomb Squad safely detonated the device shortly after 10 p.m., Wood said. No one was injured and no property was damaged, she said/Carolyn Lamberson, SR. More here.

TGIF Wild Card — 8.27.10

Signs that summer’s ending — North Idaho Fair. Last free concerts @ City Park, Fort Sherman Square, and Riverstone Park. Cool edge to night breeze. High school football returns to local football fields. As you can see below, our old buddy Dick Haugen will launch his new on-line broadcast of high school football tonight w/the game between Coeur d’Alene & Moscow. Dick, I believe, will also launch a midweek news broadcast focused on the Coeur d’Alene area. I may make some appearances on that. I’ll keep you posted. For now, I’ll play the Wild Card … and get on with posting …

Parting Shot — 8.27.10

It’s a very red field for EWU at the Cheney campus Friday. New bright red turf and a rename to Roos Field have given the Eagles a new look. (SR photo: Christopher Anderson)

Question: Which football field do you like best — Boise State’s blue? or Eastern Washington’s red?

Rumorama

Huckleberries hears … that unsuccessful congressional candidate Vaughn Ward will be relocating from Eagle to Kootenai County soon — to become CEO of Northwest Specialty Hospital, 1593 Polston in Post Falls. His job begins Wednesday.

JohnA: September Is King Of Summer

John Austin: Actually, DFO, the end of August means that the best month of summer is upon us.  It’s that magical time for locals when we get our lakes back, our roadways back and our sanity back. Now, of course, July and August are exceptional in north Idaho with their long, hot days and cool if short nights.  But September is the king of summer for Deena and I as we navigate the south end of the lake without much competition, and meander the St. Joe and Coeur d’Alene rivers, gorgeous in their changing-to-fall colors.  We also have the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes to ourselves, mostly, to witness the moose, deer, elk and bears in our chance encounters. No, the visitors to our area can have the rest of summer as long as they leave September, in all its majesty, to the rest of us.

Question: Which season of the year is your favorite in Inland Northwest?

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.27.10

  • 5:53 p.m. PFPD Blue asks dispatch to tell Knife River to remove a 2 1/2-foot-high pile of asphalt chips from road @ 11th & Idaho.
  • 5:51 p.m. ISP officer warns of a car full of people traveling 92 mph on I-90 to football game in Kellogg or Wallace.
  • 5:49 p.m. Caller reports a suspicious package @ Kathleen & 2nd/CdA.
  • 5:07 p.m. A sprinkler from a farm operation is creating a water hazard on H41 & Wyoming/Rathdrum.
  • 5:06 p.m. Resident reports a kitchen fire in Silver Lake Apartments, 698 Wilbur/Dalton Gardens. She left without using extinguisher.
  • 4:59 p.m. Off-duty officer is following a possible drunken driver in a red Lincoln Continental across Spokane River on H95.
  • 4:42 p.m. Caller has spotted a vehicle that rolled down an embankment, off Marie Creek Road in Wolf Lodge area. No one appears to be around the vehicle.
  • 4:28 p.m. A duelly pickup is on fire near Tesoro holding tanks @ end of Sherman.
  • 4:12 p.m. Someone is suffering an allergic reaction in 8400 block of Sunnyside/CdA.
  • 3:44 p.m. Manager of Guest House Inn asks CPD Blue to kick unwanted female out.
  • More below

PM: Bartender Saves Wedding Guest

Spokane County Sheriff Ozzie Knezovich told the media earlier today that his department wants to “express to the family of Wayne (Scott) Creach our sorrow for their loss.” A press conference was held outside the Spokane County Courthouse. A Spokane County Deputy shot Creach Wednesday night in the parking lot of Creach’s Plant Farm in Spokane Valley. Thomas Clouse/SR story here. (SR photo: Dan Pelle)

APhoto Of The Day — 8.27.10

Laura Meske, right, an employee at The Fox Hole strip club,  protests  against New Beginnings Ministries Church as Debi Durr, a member of the church, talks with her before the morning worship service in Warsaw, Ohio. You write the cutline. Story here. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)

Top Cutlines:

  • 1. Laura recruits Debi’s family to be in the Fox Hole’s Christmas pageant because they’re having trouble finding a virgin and three wise men — JohnA.
  • 2. Debi: “You don’t say! I’m working my way through medical school too! How much money did you say you make a night? Because, this church secretary job just isn’t cutting it…” — Toadman.
  • 3.  “I don’t think ‘Naughty Choir Directors’ is going to go over very well at the club, Debi. But first, let’s find a good stripper name for ya…” — Kevin Taylor.
  • HM: Frum Helen Back.

GOP Pooh-Poohs CNN Minnick Report

In an updated post, Kevin Richert/Idaho Statesman provides the Idaho GOP reaction to news that Walt Minnick’s effort to retain his seat in the 1st District appears ‘rosy’: “Idaho GOP Executive Director (Jonathan Parker) today reacted with general hilarity to a news report from CNN.com which, among other things, proclaimed Spokane to be part of Idaho and commended the state on miraculously avoiding a downturn in the property market. Parker states, ‘It is truly depressing to see the downfall in the standards of journalism in our country today, I am sure that even Walt Minnick is embarrassed to be mentioned in an article with as many errors and even fewer facts. Idaho is suffering during this crisis and whitewashing its condition to try and build up Walt Minnick won’t fool anyone.’” More here.

Question: Sour grapes? Or does Jonathan Parker make a good point?

Nic: Judge By Contents Of Pockets

Judge people not for the content of their character, but the contents of their pockets. Just kidding. But what if we were judged by the contents of our pockets? What would the contents of my pockets say about me? There are currently five items in my pocket:

  • 1. A single poker chip. Red.
  • 2. Two guitar picks. One orange and one green. Both are medium gauge, but the green one is slightly thicker.
  • 3. A dime. I usually carry coinage of some varying quantity, but today it is ten cents. One lone coin.
  • 4. My iPhone. Also known as the Swiss Army Knife of the digital age. 
  • 5. Keys. My wife’s keys to be specific as my keys are in her purse.

DFO: BTW, check out Nic’s new and improved Web site here.

Question: What’s in your pockets?

North Idaho Blogosphere — 8.27.10

“While wading in the Spokane River at Corbin Park, on what was likely the last 90-plus degree day of summer,” writes Kerri Thoreson/OnLocation North Idaho, “I watched a solitary golden leaf float by. Summer may be brief in northern Idaho but it’s truly spectacular”

Hux Numbers (for Wednesday, Aug. 25): 8943/5437, and (for Thursday, Aug. 26): 9024/5335

NCH: Just Say No To H12 Shipments

When it came out earlier this year that Conoco Phillips wanted to ship this equipment, it sounded like the needle scratching across a record. Because people were thinking “Hey this might not be the best Idea” then it was announced “Hey we want to do it in the Late Fall early winter.” In the high mountains of Idaho winter does hit early. In fact sometimes it hits so early that kids go trick-or-treating in their snow suits to stay warm. … Like I said earlier, Highway 12 is a beautiful drive in the summer, lazy river, lots of shades with some hot springs you can easily hike to. In the winter however it becomes one of the gnarliest, hair raising, spine tingling adventures you can imagine. It is narrow, windy, and sometimes when it is snowing you don’t know where the edge of the road ends, and the beginning of the high canyons start. I have been opposed to this little idea ever since it was announced because if anything went wrong it could seriously damage the canyon/No Cannot Have! More here.

Question: Have you ever traveled Highway 12?

Ex-UI Vandal WNBA’s Most Improved

New York Liberty’s Leilani  Mitchell, right, drives past Phoenix Mercury’s Temeka Johnson during the first quarter of a WNBA basketball game in Phoenix in June 2009.  Mitchell, an ex-University of Idaho basketball star (2003-06), has been voted the WNBA’s most improved player on Thursday. Story here. (AP file photo/Rick Scuteri, File)

Sam: And Baby Makes 3

Sam Taylor: We welcomed Wesley Allen Taylor into the world at 4:23 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 26. He was 6 pounds, 11 ounces and he was 19 and 3/4 inches in length. And he was three weeks early! Boy howdy was he a surprise! Unfortunately, because he’s early he’s having a bit of a tough time breathing on his own, so he’s in the nursery in an isolette where they’re giving him 33 percent oxygen (we breathe 21 percent normally) so his O2 levels are in the acceptable range.

DFO: Please join me in congratulating Sam & the lovely Kate on the birth of Wesley.

DOTC: Busy Providing Brannon Papers

Actually, I’m not sure if you’re offer is tongue in cheek, Kage, but yes all records have been provided and examined starting very early in the process through today. Both myself and my election staff have spent significant time just this week providing requested documents to both attorneys and their associates. I’m honestly not aware of anything that hasn’t been provided and in as quickly a timeframe as the legal process allowed. Like everyone involved I’ll be very happy to see this come to some final closure, whatever the Court decides, in a few weeks so my office and I can focus on our primary responsibilities for the soon to be here General Election.

Question: Has Dan of the County’s re-election chances been hurt by Jim Brannon’s lawsuit against the city of Coeur d’Alene and Councilman Mike Kennedy?

Sheriff: No Cop Intends To Hurt Public

Sheriff (Ozzie) Knezovich, shown in Dan Pelle/SR photo, acknowledged the concerns of Spokane Valley residents and the outrage many feel about what happened that night. Creach was a 74-year old pastor at Greenacres Baptist Church. But, Knezovich also says it’s important to let the investigation play out before citizens jump to conclusions. He also acknowledged the feelings experienced by the police officer who fired the shot, saying “We do our best our there to protect the public. No police officer goes to work intending to hurt one of the citizens they’re sworn to protect”/Melissa Luck, KXLY. More here.

INW: Slain Pastor’s Family Forgives Cop

Spokane County Sheriff Ozzie Knezovich,  (front leads a group of city police and sheriff deputies to tell the media at noon today outside the Spokane County Courthouse that his department wants to “express to the family of Wayne (Scott) Creach our sorrow for their loss.” A Spokane Valley officer shot Creach Wednesday night in the parking lot of Creach’s Plant Farm in Spokane Valley. See story links below. (SR photo/Dan Pelle)

Question: Could you pray for, let alone forgive, a police officer who accidentally killed a loved one of yours?

High Noon: Beer At The Fair, Anyone?

“After the Friends of the Fair dinner on Thursday night I spent a few hours strolling around the fairgrounds,” writes Kerri Thoreson/More Main Street. “ I ran into my friends, Tom Messina and Robert Cliff, who were enjoying a beer with their German sausages. I saw a few more people with beer in hand during the evening and they, too, were consuming food at the time. As I mentioned on the air on KVNI this morning, hopefully people will reserve judgement on the impact of the new rules until this year’s fair is in the books. More here.

Question: Do you plan to drink a beer at the fair this year?

IB: End Is Near for UI Law School?

The University of Idaho announced that they received a $1 million grant from the Laura Moore Cunningham Foundation, to help start a U of I Law School in Boise. … The plan is to eventually be housed in a remodeled Ada County Courthouse, and to be co-located with the Idaho Supreme Court Library. They still need to raise another $6 million to achieve that dream. I dunno about all this, though I’m not sure the U of I has much choice. If they don’t get a Boise presence, the new Concordia Law School is going to siphon off a bunch of their students. And if they do get a three year Boise program, it will pull students from the Moscow campus. Either way, it’s difficult to see how the Moscow law school stays viable, or at least, stays in anything like its current configuration/IdaBlue. More here.

Question: Do you agree with IdaBlue that a law school branch in Boise eventually will undercut that main one at the University of Idaho campus in Moscow?

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.27.10

  • 11:58 a.m. Resident wants extra patrol in 400 block of E. 4th Ave./Post Falls b/c drivers are speeding through area today.
  • 11:48 a.m. Caller on Hardy Creek Road/Cataldo reports that a drunken male who goes by nickname “Geronimo” is refusing to leave property.
  • 11:46 a.m. Someone @ 1st & Bennett/Athol has suffered trauma resulting in back pain.
  • 11:13 a.m. Anonymous caller reports loud music @ park @ 3rd & Bennett/Athol is keeping him awake.
  • 10:53 a.m. A CdA female wants an officer present to tell her of her rights while her vehicle is being repossessed.
  • 10: 30 a.m. Caller reports that a baby is unrestrained in a Jetta on Seltice Way & Corbin/Post Falls.
  • 10:11 a.m. A full-size garbage can is lying in left lane of e/b I-90 @ M/P 7.5 (near H41).
  • 9:17 a.m. Pastor of Real Life Ministries/Post Falls reports that someone messed with the utility meter and turned off power to church.
  • 9:02 a.m. Utility wires are down @ 110 Cosgrove (& Cornflower Loop/CdA, creating a safety hazard.
  • 9:02  a.m. Caller reports that a neighbor in 9800 block of Meadow Way/Hayden has 9 cats in residence.
  • 8:41 a.m. Caller reports seeing smoke at Q’emiln Park/Post Falls.
  • 8:29 a.m. A pickup pulling a trailer is on fire on I-90 @ M/P 26 (4th of July Pass).
  • 8:19 a.m. Rosemary, @ Rose Lake gas station, reports a gas drive-off.

5th Anniversary Of Katrina Sunday

Singer Charmaine Neville, background left, and actress Shauna Rappold, center, playing the role of a grieving woman, participate in a symbolic jazz funeral to honor  Hurricane  Katrina victims, ahead of the fifth  anniversary of the storm, in downtown New Orleans, Wednesday. The actual anniversary of the day Katrina reached shore, devasting New Orleans, and other Gulf Coast areas is Sunday. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

Question: Have you visited New Orleans or other Gulf Coast areas that were devastated by Katrina in the last five years? Observations?

Marc: John McCain No Longer Maverick

There once was a time when Arizona Sen. John McCain warmly embraced the label “maverick.” He seemed to delight in taking positions at odds with his party - or even his state’s - orthodoxy. He had established himself firmly in the tradition of some of the great Senate mavericks of the past - LaFollette, Borah, even Goldwater. But just as BP’s “Beyond Petroleum” brand washed away in the Gulf oil spill, so has McCain’s maverick brand forever vanished thanks to his presidential election run and his ugly, but still decisive, victory yesterday in the GOP primary in Arizona. McCain, by all odds, will be back in the Senate post-November, but not as a maverick and likely not ever again as an interesting, important American political player/Marc Johnson, The Johnson Post. More here. (AP file photo)

Question: Which national politician today best exemplifies the label “maverick”?

Rumorama

OrangeTV, via Get Out! North Idaho Facebook: “Rumor has it that a certain recently evicted brewery in Cd’A has found a new location in a recently closed Christian performing arts center on 4th St. near downtown. If that’s not enough of a hint, can’t help ya …” (Hint: Coeur d’Alene Brewing Co. BTW, you can refresh your memory why Coeur d’Alene Brewing is looking for a new home and former Coeur d’Alene Press business reporter Rick Thomas is looking for a new job by clicking on this Coeur d’Alene Press story here.)

HBO Poll: Otter Budget Hurt Education

  • Thursday Poll: 96 of 154 (62%) respondents said Gov. Butch Otter hurt Idaho education by offering & approving a budget that was too conservative. 55 of 154 (36%) said he wasn’t. 3 of 154 (2%) were undecided.
  • Weekend Poll: Which talented team will emerge as football champion of the 5A Inland Empire League?

Muslims (Heart) Obama, Mormons Don’t

A Gallup survey indicates that in the first half of this year, 78 percent of Muslims approved of the job the president’s doing in the White House, while just 24 percent of Mormons give Obama a thumbs up. According to the poll, the president’s approval rating among Protestants and other Christians was 43 percent, it stood at 50 percent for Catholics, 61 percent among Jews, 63 percent for Atheists, Agnostics and those with no religion, and 64 percent for those from other non-Christian religions. The president’s approval among all Americans stood at 48 percent/Paul Steinhauser, CNN. More here.

  • Cutline: President Barack Obama, and daughter Malia, ride bicycles in Manuel F. Correllus State Forest in West Tisbury, Mass., while the first family vacations on Martha’s Vineyard today. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Question: Any surprises here?

Haugen Launches NIWebsports Tonite

Hey Dave, A reminder to all High School Football fans. Tonight marks the start of my new business adventure NIWebsports.com. I’ll be in Moscow bringing you the Coeur d’Alene vs Moscow FB game. We take to the net at about 6:45. I’ll try to send shout-outs to those who e-mail me at talkjoc@niwebsports.com during the game. Thanks for the support!/Dick Haugen, President/CEO and chief bottle-washer, NIWebsports.com

Question: How about joining me tonight by tuning in online to Dick Haugen’s inaugaral broadcast of NIWebsports.com — Coeur d’Alene versus Moscow?

DOTC Meets Friends, McCrory @ Fair

Dan of the County: To follow up on the original post, I had several friendly folks including Republicans stop by the D’s booth and visit yesterday. Tom Malzahn was working his booth during the same time and we both went to each other’s “territory” to say hello. I even had Bill McCrory stop and take my picture! Although I did jokingly tell him that I wondered if he should read me my Miranda rights before he took my picture … All in all a good time and good company, I’ll be out there again most of the afternoon and evening.

Question: Do you think the Kootenai County clerk’s race between Democrat DanOTC and Republican Cliff Hayes will be the nastiest one locally?

Letter: No Problem w/Beer @ NI Fair

From Karleen Meyer/Rathdrum letter to the editor in Coeur d’Alene Press: “I spent Wednesday from 9 a.m to 10 p.m at the North Idaho Fair and Rodeo. As one of four superintendents in the Draft Horse barn I was out and about on the grounds and visiting with the fair patrons as they came through our barn. I did not encounter any drunks! And it wasn’t until around 8 p.m that I saw the first glass of beer being carried around, when three very pleasant women came through the barn.” More here.

Question: Have you encountered anyone carrying around beer at the North Idaho Fair? Did you see any problems?

Marty: Cheers For Guv Debates

In his weekly Cheers & Jeers column, Marty Trillhaase/Lewiston Tribune writes: “CHEERS … to Gov. C.L. (Butch) Otter. He’s the incumbent Republican in a Republican state. He’s ahead of Democratic challenger Keith Allred by, depending on the poll, at least 11 points. So the prudent thing for Otter would be to dispense with Allred in one obligatory debate. Not this time. Otter has agreed to share the stage as many as five times in this campaign:

  • Aug. 19’s debate at the Idaho Falls City Club.
  • Sept. 15 at the Boise City Club.
  • Oct. 7 at Lewiston, sponsored by the Tribune, the Moscow-Pullman Daily News and KLEW. (Otter’s people say this is tentative. They’re still working out the schedule.)
  • Oct. 13 at Caldwell, presented by Boise’s KTVB, Spokane’s KREM and Idaho Falls’ KIFI television stations.
  • Oct 28 at Boise, broadcast statewide over Idaho Public Television and co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters and the Idaho Press Club.” More here.

Question: I join Lewiston Trib opinionator Marty Trillhaase in applauding Butch Otter for his series of debates against Democrat Keith Allred. But there be one debate in North Idaho?

AM Headlines — 8.27.10

Howard and Teresa Martinson enjoy corn on the cob in the Food Court at the North Idaho Fair Wednesday. Mutton Bustin & the Little Wrangler Rodeo are on tap at the fair today. The North Idaho Fair Web site provides the rest of today’s events here.

Question: What is your favorite North Idaho Fair food?

OTC: Just Say No To Journalism

One of my professors this week told us how bleak the future looks for journalism students. Basically, if I manage to find a job after graduation, I’ll make a laughable salary. Can I just stay in college forever, please? At least here, it’s considered normal to live off tuna fish and Ramen Noodles/Kelli, University of Idaho Argonaut. More Off The Cuff here.

Question: What would you tell your child, if s/he expressed a desire to go to college to become a journalist?

Lee: Local 5A IEL Teams Well Matched

A playoff-caliber football team will not qualify for the state playoffs in the 5A Inland Empire League this season. The conference shapes up as the most balanced in years. Lake City, which qualified for the playoffs for a 13th straight year and captured the league championship last fall, returns most of its skill players, led by senior quarterback Mark Smyly. Coeur d’Alene, which lost to LC in the regular season but bounced back to avenge the defeat and advance to the state semifinals, returns practically its entire team. The key hole CdA must fill is at QB. Junior Chad Chalich has been tabbed the starter. Post Falls, which continues to close the gap on the traditional powers, returns its backfield led by senior quarterback Matt Lickfold, and the Trojans are seen by some as the preseason favorite after a solid summer camp. Something will have to give/Greg Lee, SR. More here. (SR file photo/Kathy Plonka, of Lake City High football coach Van Troxel)

Question: Do you follow a local high school football team? Which one? Why?

CNN: Outlook For Minnick Rosy

Last cycle, Minnick’s war chest was nearly double Sali’s, thanks in part to a $900,000 infusion of his own money. This time around, he hasn’t yet had to open his wallet: as of the most recent FEC filing, he had more than $1.1 million cash on hand, to about $69,000 for his Republican challenger. The remaining wild card is outside spending: Minnick’s been a top GOP target since his win, and conservative groups like Freedom’s Watch and the Club for Growth spent big here last time around. But recent indications that Minnick may have built up a daunting lead — combined with more-competitive races in bordering states that drove up the price of local advertising this summer — may move this race even further down the GOP’s priority list than it already seems to have sunk, in a year rich with Republican pickup opportunities/Rebecca Sinderbrand, CNN. More here.

Question: Is incumbent Walt Minnick reaching the point that re-election is his unless he stumbles badly somewhere in the next 2 months?

Signe: Glenn Beck Show

Signe Wilkinson/Philadelphia Inquirer

Macauley Culkin Wild Card — 8.26.10

I ran into Dan English last night at the Democrats booth at the North Idaho Fair. He was surprised that most folks who’d ventured by were fairly civil, given the uncivil nature of local politics. I wasn’t too surprised. Most people are in a good mood at the fair, even Democrats and Republicans. The nasty stuff will start next week when candidates officially launch their fall campaigns. A date worth watching is Sept. 1, the deadline for North Idaho College trustee filings. It’ll be interesting to see who emerges to take on incumbent Christie Wood and file for a board vacancy. Until then, I’ll play the Macaulay Culkin (in honor of the ‘Home Alone’ star’s 30th birthday today) Wild Card and wait with the rest of you …

Parting Shot — 8.26.10

A mountain rescue team walks down from Mount Hood after recovering two sets of human remains today, near Timberline, Ore. The remains of two people have been found near the summit of Mount Hood and could be a pair of climbers who went missing last year. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

Cindy: I Don’t Like The Fair!

Oh alright, I may as well say it.
I don’t want any fair photos at all.
I don’t like the Fair.
I don’t like the Food (I get my elephant ear fix at Silverwood and once a year is enough.)
I don’t like the rides.
I don’t like the stinky animals (piglets are ok, but not worth the smell).
I don’t like looking at vegetables or quilts.
I’d rather look at photos online or in a gallery.
I don’t like the crowds.
The only thing I’ll go to the Fair for is the Demolition Derby, which I LOVE.
There ya have it — Cindy.

Question: Anyone else out there who also doesn’t like fairs?

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.26.10

  • 5:26 p.m. Caller reports that 3 males and 3 females on a CityLink bus threatened to kill her boyfriend and her — and now may be in Cabela’s buying a knife.
  • 5:15 p.m. I-90 driver reports 2 motorcyclists — one male & one female — racing and popping wheelies.
  • 5:13 p.m. Business at 119 Appleway reports an unwanted person on grounds.
  • 4:46 p.m. Resident reports that female built a possibly illegal campfire on the beach behind his property @ 14368 Samhill Trail/Hayden Lake.
  • 4:30 p.m. Caller reports a domestic dispute on Wolf Lodge Creek Road in which male is holding a pair of scissors he claims to trim his mustache.
  • 4:32 p.m. Horses are loose on H95 @ M/P 445 (near Bunco Road/Athol).
  • 4:18 p.m. Bag of concrete fell out of bed of white pickup on I-90 & M/P 3/Post Falls.
  • Much more below

PM: Food Network Fieri Visits Capone’s

Capone’s Pub and Grill in Midtown Coeur d’Alene was a flutter with excitement on Monday afternoon when Guy Fieri of the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” stopped in to film an upcoming segment. The spiky-haired, bleached-blond Fieri was also spotted at Jimmy’s Down the Street on Sherman Avenue that afternoon. More from Kerri Thoreson’s Main Street column here.

Cross: Iupati Headed For Failure

Randy Cross, who went to multiple Pro Bowls playing for the greatest 49ers teams, thinks rookie first-round guard Mike Iupati is headed for a disappointing career — unless Iupati follows Cross’ advice to stop engaging defenders so aggressively. “Every time I’ve seen this potential annual All-Pro approach a defender, he engulfs defenders with his arms, with his hands, ending up in hugging position,” Cross writes. “Mike, embrace the term ‘within the frame of the defender’s body’ and get those hands on the numbers at the defender’s chest at ALL times”/Mike Sando, ESPN.com. More here. (AP file photo)

Question: What do you expect of rookie 49er lineman Mike Iupati this year?

Required: Kids, Animals In Fair Photos

I noticed with amusement the 7 fair photos published in this morning’s Coeur d’Alene Press. All 7 had children in them. 4 of the 7 had children with animals. Back when I was the editor of The Daily Inter Lake in Kalispell, Mont., I was told by the late Publisher C. Patrick King to fire my best news photographer because he’d taken a bunch of artsy fartsy photos of the Northwest Montana Fair carnival rather than ones with children holding animals. Indeed, King was so incensed that he wanted the hard-working man, who had several children to support, to get the boot. Not only did I succeed in saving the guy’s job, but also got him a dime per hour raise for the good job he did. Which was a big deal in that tight-fisted Duane Hagadone newspaper. Probably still is. Then, I made an error in judgment and told the news photographer about his close scrape. He quit a short time later to move to the Missoulian and later the Wichita Eagle.

  • Cutline: Sydney Graczyk, then 7, tries to hang on while a mechanical bull spins and bucks, In this 2008 North Idaho Fair photo by Jesse Tinsley.

Question: Do you want kids and animals in all your fair photos?

Napkin Notes: Dynamic Marriage

Paul and I had been married for a glorious eleven days before we had our first big fight.  It was over something silly, of course, but it didn’t seem like it at the time.  I felt like all our future happiness and self-respect was hanging in the balance, teetering on the outcome of our fireworks.  There was a great deal of shouting, a little theatrical crying, a dramatic exit, and a stony silent treatment that would have made Clara Bow proud.  Thankfully, it didn’t last long.  Within an hour, the clouds had blown over.  Our newlywed hearts went predictably mushy, and we approached each other sheepishly, full of regrets and apologies, ready to work out an adult solution to our impasse. And from that day to this, we’ve never had another argument. Okay, okay.  If you’re married, you already know that last line is laughably untrue/Katrina, Notes On A Napkin. More here.

  • DFO: Kristina e-mails: “Paul and I were trained this summer to facilitate an awesome course called Dynamic Marriage; it’s a powerful 8-week course that helps hurting marriages heal and makes good marriages great, and we’re offering it to the community as well as church members.” If you’re interested in joining Katrina & Paul for the 8-week course, there’s an informational link at the end of the blog post above.

Question: Can you remember one of your first fights with your mate after exchanging vows?

KHQ Poll: Spokane Isn’t Safe

Interesting findings in KHQ poll re: the fatal shooting of a security officer earlier this week (and before the officer shooting of the Spokane Valley pastor/nursery owner last night): “Poll Question: Do you feel safe in Spokane?” 38% of the respondents marked “Yes, I do.” 15% marked, “I’m not sure.” And a near majority, 47%, said: “No, I don’t.” We discussed this issue at times here.

Question: What should Spokane do to address the growing perception that it’s a dangerous place?

Reprising 1st Idaho Flight

Longtime aircraft builder Dean Wilson makes the first flight at dawn Wednesday in Lewiston. There were no problems flying the ancient but updated pusher design, making it ready for a centennial celebration in September of the first flight in  Idaho at Lewiston, made in 1910. (AP Photo/Lewiston Tribune, Barry Kough)

Cindy: My Life Is A Work In Progress

On Facebook, Cindy writes: “My life is a work in progress, but the teamsters keep walking off the job, the mental health professionals won’t take my insurance, my spiritual advisors are always on vacation, my editor red pens the sections I like best, and I can’t make up my mind about the color-scheme and decor.”

Question: How can you tell that your life is a work in progress?

Spence: Iraqi Voters Shame Us

In the seven years since the U.S. invasion, there’s been little to make me think the average Iraqi citizen might be better than us Americans. No doubt that has a lot to do with the selective news coverage: Mostly what we hear about is somebody blowing themselves to pieces, killing and maiming their fellow countrymen. That’s hardly something that could earn our admiration. Flailing away in random violence - it smacks of hopelessness, the very antithesis of the American spirit. In at least one regard, though, Iraqi behavior puts us to shame. That would be in the voting booth. For the most part, voting in America is about as difficult as signing up for a free refrigerator. We may have to stand in line for a bit, but with the vote-by-mail movement, even that’s quickly becoming a thing of the past. For us this basic duty is a minor inconvenience. In Iraq, by contrast, people die for the privilege/William L. Spence, Lewiston Tribune. More here.

Question: Why do we have to be dragged kicking and screaming to the polls, while Iraqis willingly will risk their lives to vote?

Voltron: Let’s Resolve 2009 Election

In the comments section, Voltron has proposed a contest between Councilman Mike Kennedy and challenger Jim Brannon, with a North Idaho Fair theme, to end Brannon’s long-running lawsuit from 2009 council elections.There’s seven rounds to the contest, with each round progressively harder. The Third Round tests, for example, “is about having a strong stomach. It consists eating an elephant ear, one cotton candy, an ice cream bar, a corn dog and a rasberry flavored snow cone in the fastest time possible. During the eating portion, Mike Kennedy will be forced to listen to a Mary Souza rant on tape. Jim Brannon will be forced to listen to Phaedrus rant on tape. Any vomitting is an automatic loss for the round.” You can read the entire contest proposal here.

Question: Can you suggest other fair-oriented tests to resolve Brannon’s legal challenge?

INW: Cop Kills Spokane Valley Pastor

Police block off the driveway of The Plant Farm in Spokane Valley this morning. Wayne Scott Creach, 74, pastor and owner of a plant nursery, was shot and killed by a Spokane Valley police officer late Wednesday night. Erik Loney/KXLY talked to son of Pastor Creach on camera here. Mike Prager/SR story below.(AP Photo/The Spokesman-Review)

High Noon: Macaulay Culkin Turns 30

People magazine reports today: “It may not happen to Peter Pan but it has to Macaulay Culkin – he’s all grown up. Forever known for his starring role as the abandoned 9-year-old Kevin McCallister in 1990’s Home Alone – the highest-grossing live-action comedy in Hollywood history – and its subsequent 1992 sequel, the former child star turned the big 3-0 (today).” More here.

Question: Feeling older?

New Doctors Chambers Save Passenger

There wasn’t a doctor in the house, but there were two freshly minted ones on that flight from Seattle to New York when a female passenger passed out and quit breathing. Drs. Kyle (pictured, from Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary residency program) and Lili Chambers were en route to the World Cup in South Africa when they heard the S.O.S from the flight attendant. Less than 24 hours before, the Chamberses had graduated from UWashington medical school — Kyle as an ears, nose, & throat doc; Lili, as a pediatrician. (Kyle, a 1999 Coeur d’Alene High grad, is the son of Dr. Dave Chambers of Nettleton Gulch.) So Kyle & Lili rang their buttons and were escorted to the patient who was turning blue. Complicating the matter, the family of the stricken passenger couldn’t speak English, which made it impossilbe to figure out if she had been ill, eaten anything, allergies, or heart problems. In spite of this, the Doctors Chambers quickly helped the woman to breath again and stabilized her. Ultimately, they made their connecting flight in New York, enjoyed the World Cup, and now working at residencies in Boston.

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.26.10

  • Noonish: Female complains that a male is regularly driving by her home and texting her.
  • 11:42 p.m. Grass fire of 1 acre reported along H95 @ M/P 421 (Mica Creek Bridge).
  • 11: 23 p.m. ITD asks for extra ISP patrols on I-90 b/n M/Ps 24 & 32 (4th of July Pass) where road crews will be re-striping.
  • 11:07 a.m. North Idaho Family Physicians @ 700 Ironwood reports a patient suffering a stroke.
  • 10:27 a.m. Officer reports pulling over a yellow dune buggy that was speeding @ Government Way & Hanley.
  • 10:16 a.m. 2 callers report that a dog is running into traffic @ H41 & 16th/Post Falls.
  • 10:05 a.m. Female at Shore & Doyle/Cataldo reports that neighbor has blocked private road w/boulders and told her to take him to court when she asked him to leave her land.
  • 9:51 a.m. A disoriented female, dressed in black, is standing in median @ I-90 & H41.
  • 9:46 a.m. Tow truck accidentally dropped a damaged vehicle in H95 construction zone.
  • 9:20 a.m. Connie has problems with her neighbor’s cat.
  • 9:19 a.m. Caller reports a possible illegal burn on S. Lakeside Drive/Harrison.
  • 8:37 a.m. A disabled, white vehicle is partly blocking H41 @ M/P 24.
  • 8:34 a.m. Caller reports wood chips are smoldering @ Seltice Way & Post/Post Falls.
  • 8:20 a.m. Les @ Rose Lake Conoco reports finding a briefcase in the Dumpster.

HBO Poll: Blue-Collar Kids OK w/Us

  • Wednesday Poll: 126 of 172 respondents (73%) said they wouldn’t be disappointed if their child opted for a blue-collar job rather than go to college. 38 of 172 respondents (22%) said they would be. And 8 of 172 respondents (5%) were undecided.
  • Today’s Poll: Did Gov. Butch Otter hurt Idaho education by being too conservative with his last budget?

Wake-Up Call

On her Facebook page, Cindy reports: “So I open the shower curtain and see Milo (pictured) sitting on my towel with my bra around his neck. It’s an interesting way to start the day.”

Question: Can you tell of an interesting start to your day that happened recently?

Seattle Diner Unhappy w/The Porch

I, after tiresome delays at SeaTac, needed a drink and so picked up the cocktail menu on the table to see what house libations were on offer. Apparently, rather than offer cocktails developed for mature and discriminating palates, the management at the Porch has decided to cater to what I can only describe as frat boy culture — uneducated “bros” who buy sickeningly sweet drinks to get their unsophisticated girlfriends blotto so they can get them in the sack. Despairing, I set the menu aside and ordered a pink Tanqueray and tonic. While the staff didn’t know what the devil a pink gin is, it’s easily made and not beyond the skills of even the most inept bartender. Weirdly, I had to ask for limes as these were not included with my drink/BrianH, Yelp reviews (via Get Out! North Idaho Facebook page). More here.

Question: The Porch received rave reviews here during the short run of the HBO Grub Club. What do you make of Yelp reviewer BrianH’s complaint re: the popular Hayden eatery?

Allred: Otter Botched Budget, Hurt Ed

Keith Allred, Democratic candidate for governor, says the latest official state revenue forecasts shows “Otter cut schools unnecessarily,” and said in a news release this morning, “New information about Idaho’s budget once again underscores one point: Idaho school kids shouldn’t have to pay the price for Butch Otter’s botched budget.” Idaho lawmakers and Otter cut funding for public schools this year by $128 million, 7.5 percent. The latest state revenue forecast suggests the current fiscal year, which began July 1, could end with about $80 million more in state tax revenue that lawmakers predicted/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: Did Butch Otter act responsibly by taking a conservative approach to the education budget? Or did he hurt education by being too cautious?

North Idaho Fair Comment Thread

I saw Don Sausser and Mrs. S walking around the fairgrounds last night, by the exhibition barns. Later, he must have spotted this teen getting her face painted and pulled out his handy camera. Please feel free to send in your photographs of the fair — and post any comments about the fair. BTW, I saw that several regulars here had entered various items at the fair, including Christa Hazel, Arch Druid, & Shannon.

Question: Do you have any observations re: the first day of the North Idaho Fair? You can use this thread to post them.

Philly To Charge Bloggers $300/Year

The Philadelphia City Paper is reporting that Philly is requiring bloggers to get a $300 business license in order to operate their blogs. This seems kind of outrageous to me but may be a sign of things to come for the world of blogs.  I’m actually surprised at how many small readership blogs have advertising. I can’t imagine most of them are making more than a couple bucks a year. In my opinion, blogging makes a terrible business but it makes a great avenue for community involvement, personal discipline and just all around fun/Down To Earth. More here.

Question: Would you blog if you had to pay your city $300 — or a lesser amount — to do so?

Inlander: CdA Politics Stuck in 2009

Spokane just finished its primary elections. North Idaho’s were back in May. But Coeur d’Alene is still stuck in 2009 thanks to its city council election, a five-vote squeaker has created a frenzy of legal issues and cries of small-town corruption. Last November, incumbent Councilman Mike Kennedy beat challenger Jim Brannon (pictured). A few weeks later, Brannon filed a lawsuit challenging the results. Idaho law allows the loser a free recount if the victory is within one-tenth of a percent — but using the same ballots and the same machines wouldn’t do, Brannon announced, demanding careful analysis of the election. In the following months, that analysis has devolved into taunts and insults on competing websites (the Spokesman-Review’s Huckleberries Online and the conspiracy-minded opencda.com) and allegations that North Idaho’s civic leaders are as power hungry as North Korea’s dear leader. How did a city council race ever come to this?/Heidi Groover, Inlander. More here.

  • DFO: Reporter Heidi Groover is a summer intern for the Inlander from Hayden.

Question: Has Jim Brannon’s lawsuit against the city of Coeur d’Alene and Councilman Mike Kennedy prevented the city from moving ahead in any way? Or is it simply a distraction?

Mary Lou: Pleasures Of NIdaho Swims

As August wanes and the summer nights begin to cool us down, let’s stop a moment and say thank you to our deliciously swimmable North Idaho lakes. Although summer dawdled in June in turning the heat up, July brought the hot days it takes to warm the waters and turn our thoughts to getting wet and staying wet. There are lots of us who love to swim and believe all water — Coeur d’Alene Lake in particular — exists for us to swim in. Not everyone agrees. Recently, in a discussion about the future of Cougar Bay, Jim Aucutt, chairman of the Kootenai County Parks and Waterways Advisory Board, was quoted in the Coeur d’Alene Press as saying, “The waters of the state of Idaho belong to the boaters.” Grrrrrrrr/Mary Lou Reed, a former Idaho senator, Inlander. More here.

Question: Do you agree with Jim Aucutt of the county Parks and Waterways Advisory Board that the ‘waters of the state of Idaho belong to the boaters.’?

AM Headlines — 8.26.10

Charlotte Pegoraro and her son Luke Pegoraro, 4, of Harrison, wait for their vegetables to be checked in for competition at the North Idaho Fair Garden Building on Monday/Kathy Plonka, SR.

Elin: ‘Been Through Hell’

Elin Nordegren is shown on the cover of People magazine’s Sept. 6 issue. Tiger  Woods’ ex-wife said she has “been through hell” since her husband’s infidelity surfaced but she never hit him, according to an interview released Wednesday. Nordegren told People magazine she and  Woods  tried for months to reconcile the relationship. In the end, a marriage “without trust and love” wasn’t good for anyone, she said. (AP Photo/People Magazine)

Question: Who do you feel most sorry for in the break-up of Tiger Woods’ marriage — Tiger or Elin?

These Hospital Gowns Part On Side

Two Treasure Valley medical professionals have come up with a design to help make hospital stays a little easier on patients. Registered nurse Carleen Egbert, from Meridian, and Dr. Brian Kerr, of Boise, have developed a new hospital gown that parts at the side and thus covers the patient’s body more thoroughly. A source of embarrassment for many, the traditional gowns part and tie at the back, leaving the patient’s backside often uncovered/Christoph Kober, Idaho Press Tribune. More here.

Question: Should Kootenai Medical Center order these gowns?

Cop Kills Valley Pastor, Biz Owner

RE: Officer shoots Southern Baptist pastor, business owner in Valley/Mike Prager, SR

Community Comment: It will be interesting to see how the spin-moguls manage to make it sound like Pastor Creach is at fault for his own death. it. More here.

Question: What’s wrong with the police departments in Spokane County?

Otter Enters Spokane River Dispute

Item: Otter gets involved in bi-state river dispute: Governor: New technology may help solve problem/Brian Walker, Coeur d’Alene Press

More Info: Idaho Gov. Butch Otter has been enlisted to help shake the bi-state Spokane River cleanup plan controversy. Otter and Post Falls Mayor Clay Larkin met behind closed doors on Wednesday to discuss how Idaho agencies that discharge wastewater to the river can avoid a costly court battle with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Question: Do you want to see Gov. Butch Otter be involved in the cleanup controversy involving the Spokane River?

Anderson: Resurgent Insurgency

Nick Anderson/Houston Chronicle

North Idaho Fair Wild Card — 8.25.10

I’ll be at the North Idaho Fair after work this evening to enjoy the usual fare of exhibits, huckleberry ice cream, and entertainment. (See fair schedule here.) I’ll be with Mrs. O and my 85YO mother. So we probably won’t get much farther than the exhibit area of the fair. Mom doesn’t walk that well any more. But she enjoys the fair nonetheless. I hope to see you there. Now, for your Wild Card …

Parting Shot — 8.25.10

Twelve-year-old Madison Gallus registers for seventh-grade classes at Canfield Middle School in Coeur d’Alene on Tuesday.(SR photo: Kathy Plonka)

KREM: Fair Goers Now Can Tote Beer

The North Idaho Fair kicked off Wednesday with one controversial change. Alcoholic beverages bought at the Fair will be allowed throughout the fairgrounds instead of only in designated areas like beer gardens. Fair promoters argue it will help promote a family atmosphere during the event by allowing parents to stay with their children, but not everyone agrees. “I think it’s a huge mistake,” says Cammie Hastings from Coeur d’Alene. ” I think the fair is a family place and I don’t think it’s the place for alcohol.  If they want to have their own area especially in the evenings, a beer garden but not where all the kids are all day.  It’s just not right”/KREM. More here. (AP file photo for illustrative purposes)

Question: Are you looking forward to packing a beer around the fairgrounds this week?

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.25.10

  • 5:54 p.m. Possible suicide attempt on Dodd Road/Hayden.
  • 5:37 p.m. A male w/long gray hair rode off on a bike toward KFC after he allegedly pulled a knife and possibly stabbed another male in 100 block of East Borah/CdA.
  • 5:21 p.m. An extremely drunk female is walking in front of Tim’s Meats on Government Way.
  • 5:09 p.m. A juvenile has run away after taken prescription drugs from 900 block of Lincoln Way/CdA.
  • 5 p.m. Patrol officer hit guardrail after his vehicle suffered a blowout on 4th of July Pass.
  • 4:59 p.m. At 1:41 p.m. today, Bicyclist Russell W. Irby, 14, of Coeur d’Alene, was knocked unconscious & taken to KMC after he was hit by a vehicle driven by Marty D. Frantz, 59, of Post Falls, that was entering Government Way. ISP report here.
  • 4:21 p.m. Oregon welfare worker wants CPD Blues to check on 21YO mother w/3YO son who might be staying in Lake Coeur d’Alene Drive motel. She left state w/o approval.
  • 4:01 p.m. 3 females in front of the Iron Horse b/n 4th & 5th on Sherman are darting back and forth into traffic.
  • Much more below

PM: Bonner County Mulls Layoffs

This isn’t part of OrangeTV’s Food Porn program. Rather, it’s from the Web page of ilovecda.com. Seems Blogmistress and her husband were concerned that one of their parents would introduce their child to Hudson’s Hamburgers before they had a chance to do so. Click here to see why that’s no longer an issue.

Question: When did you last eat a Hudson’s hamburger?

Ex-Hayden Hopeful Faces Race Count

In this October 2003 AP file photo, Aryan Nations founder Richard G. Butler, left, displays his new campaign signs, along with Aryan follower Zack  Beck, right, outside Butler’s home in Hayden. Butler, who has since died, was running for mayor, and  Beck for a City Council position. Now, Beck is indicted in a racially motivated attack on a patron in a Vancouver, Wash., bar. See story here. (AP Photo/Jeff T. Green)

Idaho GOP Reins In Labrador Help

The AP reports today that the Idaho Republican Party has shifted gears and isn’t using one of its “victory” staffers to work to elect Raul Labrador to Congress after all, instead spending most of his time on other state GOP campaigns. Jeff Ward, head of the Kootenai County Reagan Republicans, was hired to work in Coeur d’Alene and head up a push for Labrador against incumbent Congressman Walt Minnick, but state GOP executive director Jonathan Parker told the AP today that he’s now being used as “a traditional Idaho GOP employee”/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: Does this move spell retreat from the Labrador campaign by Idaho GOP? Or is it simply a reorganization?

North Idaho Blogs — 8.25.10

At the Cat House & Shooting Gallery, JeanC continues to enjoy the new camera that her husband surprised her with. You can see more of her recent work here.

Hucks Online numbers (for Tuesday, Aug. 24): 8986/5517, and (for Monday, Aug. 23): 10,016/5872.

Food Porn: Cricket’s Shrimp Stir Fry

Among the dinner specials at Crickets in downtown Coeur d’Alene is this plate of shrimp fry, which OrangeTV/Get Out! North Idaho presents to us on his Facebook page as the latest dish of “Food Porn.” And I had a can of low-fat Amy’s minestrone for lunch.

Question: Are you a seafood or stir fry fan?

DanG: ‘People Will Die’ In Attack

At the Coeur d’Alene Press online site, Dan Gookin of OpenCDA.com and a poster pseudonymed RadRevD are discussing the city’s decision to buy insurance against terrorist attack. RadRevD wonders if the insurance will make Coeur d’Alene whole, if there’s some sort of attack against a chemical source that could pollute the Spokane River and Rathdrum aquifer. Gookin responds by returning to an old complaint that the city has refused to show a disaster plan for meltdown of some sort at the wastewater treatment plan on national security grounds. Continues Gookin: “My guess is that they don’t show the plan because FEMA gave them a D or an F on it. That’s most likely because PEOPLE WILL DIE (his caps not mine).” (SR 2007 file photo: Then Coeur d’Alene wastewater superintendent Sid Frederickson points out how dead bacteria settle in treatment tank.)

Question: Are you concerned re: a terrorist attack that would target the wastewater treatment plant in Coeur d’Alene?

Jesuit Calls Out Anti-Indian NICA

Retiring Jesuit priest Tom Connolly wrote the following form St. Maries Gazette-Record: Unfortunately, those like (North Idaho Citizens Alliance) who want to continue to keep tribes down have organized to seek to prevent them from exercising their long-suppressed rights. In a simple recent instance, Benewah County might need additional law enforcement for its civic events. If fully trained and certified enforcement officials were to be temporarily used from Kootenai County, nothing would ever be said. But if there’s a possibility of temporarily using equally fully trained and certified enforcement officials from the nearby Coeur d’Alene Tribe, a huge uproar is raised by NICA against any possible recognition or cooperation with an Indian tribe. … NICA bullies and threatens Benewah County with their anti-tribal diatribes to prevent any harmonious relationships between the tribe and the county. More here.

Question: Do you think a Jesuit priest with the gravitas of Father Tom Connolly can talk sense to the North Idaho Citizens Alliance?

Another Day, Another Mariner Loss

Seattle Mariners’ Ichiro Suzuki strikes out against Boston Red Sox starter Josh Beckett during the fourth inning of a baseball game in Boston, Wednesday. Boston won 5-3. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

Question: Are you still following the Seattle Mariners this year?

Kiki Swings My Vote At 11th Hour

Here’s the Facebook argument from Kiki Miller that ultimately tipped the balance in my mind to vote for the Kootenai Technical Education Campus: “Still confused about KTec a bit. But…for my simple mind it’s….. a.) kids & education (yes, tech training is education!) = money well spent b.) districts rarely cooperation with each other, good to support that effort c.) it’s less tax than dinner with a friend outta my pocket and 30min to go vote. so.. yes it is!”

Question: What ultimately swayed your KTEC vote?

Future Generations Will Dis Golf Shirts

When German archeologist Heinrich Schliemann dug up the remains of ancient Troy in 1872, he discovered objects that contained images of what we’ve come to believe ancient Greeks looked like: Men wore tunics — basically knee-length T-shirts — and women sported togas. But what if that was just a fad of the 12th century B.C.? In normal times, maybe Greeks actually wore tie-dye, board shorts and Skechers. The question arises because the golf shirt (actually, polo shirt is the proper name) has become the unofficial work uniform of the early 21st century/Steve Crump, Twin Falls Times-News. More here.

Question: I’m wearing a polo shirt as I type this. How often do you wear a polo (golf) shirt? And do you think they’re a passing fad?

EOB: Board Rejects Hart’s Tax Appeal

Idaho’s state Board of Tax Appeals has rejected Rep. Phil Hart’s bid to appeal an order to pay $53,000 in back state income taxes, penalties and interest, saying his appeal wasn’t timely. Hart argued that he should have months extra to file his appeal because of the state Constitution’s provision granting freedom from arrest or civil process to state legislators during legislative sessions; the appeal period ran out 10 days before the start of this year’s legislative session. You can read the decision here/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise.

Factoid: 88 percent of Huckleberries Online voters consider Rep. Phil Hart to be a “habitual tax scofflaw” while only 9% consider him to be a “principled tax resister.” What would you say to the 9% who are standing by their man?

Lynne: Need Help With Dog Problem

Lynne: Are non-stop barking dogs a ticket-able offense in CDA? These dogs bark non-stop all day and night. Neighbors have talked to the owners. To no avail. I don’t want to start calling the cops every . single . night. But at 12:30 in the morning, when I have to get up at 5:00, and I have the window closed, fan on and TV on and I can STILL hear them … I’m going to lose it!

DFO: We had the same situation a few years ago, with neighbors and myself calling the cops several times on a pack of mutts in a yard that backed up to our street barking and fighting much of the day and into the night. One neighbor finally signed a citation and tuck the guy to court. End of ruckus.

Question: Do you have a dog problem in your neighborhood? What have you done to handle it?

INW Headlines — 8.25.10

Josh Kuntz maneuvers his paddle board in Hyalite Reservoir in Bozeman, Mont. Stand up paddle boarding is gaining popularity on lakes and rivers across the west. (AP Photo/The Bozeman Chronicle, Erik Petersen)

High Noon: Is FB ‘Places’ For You?

In this file photo taken Aug. 18, 2010, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, right, talks about the social network site’s new localization services called Places during a news conference in Palo Alto, Calif. Facebook has rolled out its long-awaited location feature, Facebook Places, an application that lets users “check in” on their mobile phones so friends know where they’re hanging out and what they’re doing. Story here. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar, File)

Question: Do you plan to sign up for Facebook “Places” feature? Or do you consider it too intrusive?

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.25.10

  • 11:42 a.m. A dog is wandering along I-90 freeway @ M/P 8 (near Huetter).
  • 11:19 a.m. EMTs are responding to report of an injury fall at North Idaho Fair.
  • 11:14 a.m. 2 underage males are racing on dirt bikes on city streets (unknown location).
  • 10:33 a.m. A large, white dog that tried to attack a neighbor Tuesday on Bald Eagle/Athol is out again.
  • 10:01 a.m. Caller reports she received a text from a female who said she was threatened by another female in 2800 block of Julia/CdA.
  • 9:49 a.m. Male who reported that his dog had been stolen calls to say the dog has returned.
  • 9:42 a.m. A male who isn’t suppose to be on the grounds of an apartment complex @ 184 Spokane/CdA is walking on the sidewalk out front.
  • 9:13 a.m. A disabled vehicle is blocking the intersection of 2nd & Wallace/CdA.
  • 8:43 a.m. A pitbull is running loose @ 16th & Hanley/CdA.
  • 8:32 a.m. 2 twentysomething hitchhikers with long hair and beards, wearing camo, are trying to get a ride @ Ramsey & Diagonal/Rathdrum.

HBO Poll: Repeal Death Penalty

  • Tuesday Poll: 103 of 157 respondents (66%) said they support the permanent repeal of the ‘death penalty’ tax. 54 of 157 respondents (34%) said the tax should continue.
  • Phil Hart Poll: By 80 votes to 8, respondents said they consider Rep. Phil Hart, R-Idaho, to be “a habitual tax scofflaw” rather than a “principled tax protester.”
  • Today’s Poll: Would you be disappointed if your child opted for a blue-collar job rather than go to college?

EOB: Crapo, Risch Web Challenged

There was a time when then-Idaho Sen. Larry Craig was dubbed the “cybersenator” because he was the first U.S. senator to send out podcasts. Now, it seems, our digital edge in the U.S. Senate has slipped. George Washington University and New York University’s Stern School of Business have completed a joint study that evaluated and ranked every senator for what it dubbed their “digital I.Q.,” or “online competence” based on presence on websites, social media following and sentiment, digital marketing aptitude and search engine optimization skills. Idaho’s results? Sen. Mike Crapo ranked 64th among the 100 senators, and Sen. Jim Risch ranked 93rd/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: Are you more online competent than a U.S. senator from Idaho?

McCain Thwarts GOPrimary Upset Try

Sen.  John  McCain, R-Ariz., left, waves to supporters at an election victory party with his wife Cindy  McCain, Tuesday in Phoenix. McCain survived his toughest Republican election primary in years, beating former congressman J.D. Hayworth. Story here. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Question: McCain survived an election challenge from a Tea Party favorite in Arizona, while Lisa Murkowski appears to have lost to another Tea Party candidate in Sarah Palin’s Alaska. How would you rate the Tea Party’s impact on elections held so far this year?

Arpie: ‘How Lucky I Am’

Via Facebook, Arpie writes: “My normal bike ride last evening past the moss covered stone and around Round Lake State Park ended with a zip through the campground. To see these people from all over the country working so hard to enjoy a bit of a vacation a few minutes from where I live is always a reminder of how lucky I am.”

Question: What makes you realize how lucky you are to live in North Idaho?

CdA Insures Itself Against Terrorism

Item: Coeur d’Alene covered in case of terrorist attack/Tom Hasslinger, CdA Press

More Info: The city of Coeur d’Alene has, opting to include for at least the second straight year insurance that would cover its assets in the unlikely event of a Lake City terrorist attack. But the city’s urban renewal agency, Lake City Development Corp., turned the same opportunity down last week, declining to pick up the $5,000 premium that would cover against covert strikes. It’s the second straight year LCDC said no.

Question: Is the city of Coeur d’Alene wasting money by insuring itself against terrorist attacks?

Voltron: College Isn’t For Everyone

Voltron: I saw a lot of Hucksters opposing the KTEC based on who was behind it the campaign (Ron Nilson and Mary Souza) and letting their personal feelings about the anti-government group get in the way of much needed project. The outcome shows there is a push from society for an alternative to the college education path that is so commonly pushed by parents and the public school system. College isn’t for everybody. Just look at the drop out rates of college kids. How many millions of dollars are wasted by students who go to college simply because their parents have hammered into their brains — you will go to college

Question: Voltron goes on to say that many parents would be horrified, deep down, if their own kid decided to balk at college and the fine arts for welding and machine work. Would you?

Hard Over Eggs Are Safest To Eat

A sunny side up egg, background, and an over hard  egg are shown in this AP photo by Larry Crowe. For safety sake, an  egg  cooked on both sides to 160 degrees, foreground, is a better choice than sunny side up, where the yolk is runny. About a half billion eggs have been recalled as a result of a salmonella outbreak here.

Question: How do you like your eggs served?

Rumorama

I’ve been hearing a rumor for a few days now that Ron Nilson, fresh from victory in the Kootenai Technical Education Campus, will now challenge Christie Wood in the North Idaho College trustee elections. And that Robert Ketchum, the former Work Training Center director who was down-sized out of a job by the NIC trustees, might also run. Stay tuned.

IS: Assignment For School Parents

As a new school year begins, things are anything but old school. Teachers will likely have more students, more tests to grade - and less time for one-on-one attention. Bus routes may be more circuitous and less convenient. Field trips? Don’t get your hopes up. After two years of budget cuts, this is the school year when reality hits. It’s too early to gauge the effects. After all, classes are starting today in Boise and will start Monday in Meridian, while Nampa begins its second week of school today. Meanwhile, Idaho’s colleges and universities have just started fall semester. However, it is high time to issue a challenge - or assign some homework/Idaho Statesman Editorial Board. More here.

Question: How involved are you with your children’s education and with helping out in your children’s schools?

AGs: CraigsList Should Drop Adult Ads

Craigslist should remove its adult services section because the website cannot adequately block potentially illegal ads promoting prostitution and child trafficking, attorneys general in 17 states demanded Tuesday in a joint letter. “Only Craigslist has the power to stop these ads before they are even published,” said Kansas attorney general Steve Six in a statement Tuesday. “Sadly, they are completely unwilling to do so.” The joint letter acknowledged Craigslist faces the prospect of losing revenue if it were to remove the adult services section/KXLY. More here.

Question: Should Craigslist remove the adult services section from its Web site in an effort to block potentially illegal ads promoting prostitution and child trafficking?

AM: Voters OK 3 KTEC Levies

Nathon Akin of Lewiston keeps cool under the shade of his umbrella during his son’s football practice Tuesday in Lewiston. (AP Photo/Lewiston Tribune, Kyle Mills)

APhoto Of The Day — 8.25.10

Revelers play with tomato pulp during the annual ” tomatina” tomato fight fiesta in the village of Bunol, near Valencia,  Spain, Wednesday. Bunol’s town hall estimated more than 40,000 people, some from as far away as Japan and Australia, took up arms Wednesday with 100 tons of tomatoes in the yearly food fight known as the ‘ Tomatina’ now in its 65th year. You write the cutline. (AP Photo/Alberto Saiz)

Top Cutlines:

  • 1. (only entry): No more ketchup for me! — Lew2nl

Gambling, Lottery Expansion Fails

Some state legislatures across the country reacted to downturns in tax revenue by trying to raise more money from lotteries and other forms of gambling.  The Idaho Lottery doesn’t support that idea, and efforts in other states have been largely unsuccessful. More than half of all states considered changes to their gambling laws, but just four enacted changes so far, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL).  Attempts in 17 statehouses failed, while five states’ actions are undetermined, according to the NCSL. Among the changes, Ohio and New York both are now selling tickets for Powerball, the multi-state lottery Idaho already participates in.  New York estimates that it will raise $134 million in the next year from Powerball/Brad Iverson-Long, Idaho Reporter. More here.

Question: Do you think the current level of gambling in Idaho is enough? Would you like to see more gambling opportunities? Would you like to see no gambling at all?

Phaedrus: Will OpenCDA Protest Vote?

RE: “The Lakeland District’s $940,900 two-year levy received 1,007 “yes” votes, representing 55.27 percent of the 1,822 votes cast” — Maureen Dolan, Coeur d’Alene Press

Phaedrus: Curiouser and curiouser. The Lakeland levy won by just 5 VOTES, Will Dan Gookin and Mary Souza be hysterically demanding a recount? Will he and his cohorts want to examine the ballots? Will they sue to have the election thrown out? Why do they trust that the school board running their own election — hardly a neutral third part — did everything EXACTLY right? Did any of the voters who supported the levy vote absentee? Was every envelope time stamped? C’mon Mary Souza and Dan Gookin inquiring minds want to know. Or doesn’t any of this matter because you BFF Ron Nilson got his beloved taxpayer funded, employee training center?

Question: Does anyone want a recount of 5-vote victory in Lakeland School District levy election?

Christa: Hats Off To KTEC Organizers

RE: KTEC passes in all three districts/Alison Boggs, SR

Christa Hazel: KTEC supporters should be commended for the job well done. Passing any levy in our area is not an easy task. Add to that the hurdle of our uncertain economy and the uphill climb gets even longer. Additionally, it was an August levy ran against conventional wisdom. The Consortium folks (Ron Nilson in particular) and district administration made themselves available at many different functions county wide for months. Time spent in meetings was time not spent with loved ones. While I was not supportive, I can respect the outcome. Hopefully now we can begin to build KTEC and look to the future beyond KTEC to address the myriad of issues that affect our public education. Most importantly, I am appreciative for those who took the time to vote.

Question: Were you surprised by the outcome of the levy elections for the Kootenai Technical Education Campus?

Signe: Just End The War

Signe Wilkinson/Philadelphia Inquirer

KTEC Passes In All 3 Districts

Voters in three North Idaho school districts Tuesday said yes to a levy that will raise property taxes for two years to build a $9.5 million professional-technical high school on the Rathdrum Prairie. Voters in Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls overwhelmingly supported the measure with 65 percent and 66 percent approval, respectively. In the Lakeland School District, the measure squeaked by, earning 55.27 percent, just above the 55 percent approval rating required. “I couldn’t be happier,” said Post Falls Superintendent Jerry Keane. “It is certainly a project that will serve Kootenai County kids for a lot of years”/Alison Boggs, SR. More here.

MM: Crocs, Sweat Pants Are A Sign

Moscow Minidoka: Crocs are as stupid as sweat pants. I wouldn’t be caught dead in either. To paraphrase an episode of Seinfeld, they both signal to everyone that the wearer has simply given up.

Question: Have you ever worn sweat pants in a public place, other than for the purpose of working out?

P.S. Hung Up In Arlington, Texas

A member of the U.S. Army Golden Knights parachute team gets hung up on a flagpole during a jump into the ballpark before the baseball game between the Minnesota Twins and the Texas Rangers in Arlington, Texas, Tuesday. No one was reported injured in the minor mishap. (AP Photo/LM Otero)

KTEC Vote Wild Card — 8.24.10

Today’s the big vote day for the proposed $9.5M levy proposal for the Kootenai Technical Education Campus. It needs 55% approval in the three different school districts to pass — Lakeland, Post Falls, & Coeur d’Alene. Many of you don’t think the levies will get 50% approval. But I wouldn’t be surprised if it passed in the Lakeland School District (where campus will be located) and failed in Post Falls & Coeur d’Alene. There’s been quite a push by business interests to pass the levy. But it’s also a bad economic time. We’ll see. While we wait for the votes to be counted, I’ll post this Wild Card …

You Can Be A Racist For Doing Anything

In way of explanation, Charles Dixon comments inside: “You can say that anyone is racist for doing anything. The way the racist charge is getting thrown around these days it would make for a good Dr. Seuss book. It has become that nonsensical.” Then, he offers:

I’m a racist for tying my shoes in a knot.
I’m a racist for dotting my I’s with a dot.
I’m a racist for driving a purple and green car.
I’m a racist for driving that car way too far.
I’m a racist because my name’s Harry O’Leary.
I’m a racist for running and not being weary.
I’m a racist because I like blueberry jam.
I’m a racist because I hate green eggs and ham.
I’m a racist for using the made-up word Uppityville.
I’m a racist for thinking our president’s not civil.
I’m a racist because I don’t hate Sarah Palin.
I’m a racist cause I complain that my 401k is ailin.
I’m a racist for thinking the country’s going the wrong direction.
I’m a racist cause I deny I’d love Obama with more introspection.

Question: Do you agree w/Charles Dixon that the word “racist” is bandied about too freely today?

PM: Long Butte Fire Is USA’s Largest

An employee of the Half Moon Ranch moves cattle on Monday, southeast of Hagerman. The Long Butte Fire ignited Saturday in a lightning storm in an area 35 miles south of Glenns Ferry. But strong winds Sunday and Monday fueled its growth, making it the nation’s biggest active wildfire. Twin Falls Times-News story here. (AP Photo/The Times-News, Ashley Smith)

APhoto Of The Day — 8.24.10

An unidentified  fan is struck by a foul ball during the baseball between Minnesota  Twins and Texas  Rangers at  Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, Tx., Monday. You write the cutline. (AP Photo/Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Brandon Wade)

Top Cutlines:

  • 1. There’s no crying in baseball. Even if you’re a dork and totally blow catching a foul ball in front of your girlfriend. Even if you get a huge black eye and lose your vision in that eye and your girlfriend leaves you for a guy who can catch. Even then, there’s no crying in baseball — CindyH.
  • 2. Why do you look at the marble in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the baseball in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the marble out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a baseball in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the baseball out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the marble from your brother’s eye — Nic.
  • 3. In an unexpected place, the Mariners find their new left fielder — JohnA.
  • HM: Charlie & Soaf

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.24.10

  • 5:47 p.m. Female from Fairway area/CdA threatens to commit suicide if she doesn’t get her prescription drugs from WalMart.
  • 5:40 p.m. 2 extremely drunk males are trying to get their boat out of water @ Q’emiln Park/Post Falls
  • 5:22 p.m. Caller reports that an extended pickup w/a Denver Broncos sticker may have taken off w/goods from Goodwill on 4th/CdA.
  • 5:19 p.m. A vehicle w/Washington plates spun brodies @ Hauser Lake boat launch area before leaving.
  • 4:59 p.m. Caller reports finding a bicycle @ 724 1/2 11th/CdA.
  • 4:49 p.m. Caller is concerned that a Jeep w/o doors is being driven while children are riding in the back.
  • 4:48 p.m. Caller reports that a neighbor is creating a hazard by spray-painting his vehicle on the street @ Glacier Peak Drive/Post Falls.
  • 4:47 p.m. Upset boy at Falls Park/Post Falls reports his bike was stolen 10 minutes ago.
  • 4:27 p.m. Caller reports a possible illegal burn along Red Fir Lane/CdA.
  • 4:02 p.m. A large group of drunks is using a dock w/o permission on lower Twin Lakes.
  • Much more below

Judge Revokes Permits For Huge Loads

An Idaho judge has revoked special permits issued by the state to allow ConocoPhillips to ship four oversized loads of oil refinery equipment along a highway that follows a winding, federally protected river corridor in northern Idaho. Second District Judge John Bradbury ordered the Idaho Transportation Department to study the permit request again and take action to ensure the safety and convenience of the public. Last week, Bradbury put a temporary halt to the oil company’s plans to ship the massive coke drums along the 175-mile stretch of U.S. Highway 12. He issued his opinion today, after hearing testimony on the case on Monday/Betsy Russell, SR. (Courtesy photo from Judge John Bradbury’s Supreme Court run)

Question: Did Judge John Bradbury make the right call?

Parlez-vous Français?

Via Twitter, from Jamie Lynn Morgan: “When someone yells at their screaming child in French it sounds way sexier than when it happens in English.”

Question: Can you speak or yell in French?

Bar Report: What Pitcher, Ossifer?

How drunk do you have to be to deny to police that you have a pitcher of beer while you’re still holding it. Here’s another of my favorites from the latest Downtown Coeur d’Alene Bar Report: “Officers cited a 34 year old male for open container after catching him walking down the street with a pitcher of beer in his hand. At first the suspect denied having the pitcher, and then would not say what bar the pitcher was from, but when the officer gave him the ticket he told the officer he was “not the person who walked out of the Torch with a pitcher.” Full report here (the 4 females who set fire to a napkin at the Torch is pretty good, too).

Question: What is the dumbest thing you’ve seen a drunk do?

John McCain Faces Challenge Today

U.S. Sen.  John  McCain, R-AZ., leaves his polling station earlier today in Phoenix after casting his vote in the Arizona primary election.  McCain is being challenged by former Congressman J.D. Hayworth. An AP story reports that McCain and Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, are poised to win bitter primary fights against Tea Party opponents today here. (AP Photo/Matt York)

Question: Any predictions re: surprises in primary elections around the nation today?

Risch, Crapo Want Fed Help On Wolves

Idaho Sens. Jim Risch and Mike Crapo have sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar urging him to appeal a federal court decision placing wolves back on the endangered species list, which they call a “most unfortunate decision.” The two ask Salazar to “vigorously” appeal the decision to the 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals, adding, “It is imperative that the Department of the Interior put forth any and all necessary resources in order to successfully appeal and overturn the District Court’s decision.” Click below to read the full letter. Idaho’s top fish and game officials already have called for the state to appeal the ruling; as a named defendant, Idaho can appeal on its own, but the lead defendant in the case is Salazar/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: Should the Obama administration get involved on the side of Idaho and Montana in seeking to restore wolf hunts?

Did Steele Violate No-Contact Order?

A federal prosecutor alleges in court documents that former Aryan Nations lawyer Edgar Steele appears to have violated a no-contact order with his wife, a woman he is accused of trying to have killed. Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci J. Whelan recently filed a notice in federal court saying that Steele mailed a birthday card from the Spokane County Jail with a plea for help to his wife, Cynthia. “I know how to say ‘I Love You.’ though they won’t let me say it, they can’t stop me from loving you … nor you from loving me, of course — which I hope you still do, Sweetheart,” the card reads. “I need you more now than I ever have — more than I ever have needed anything. “Never, in a million years, would I do anything to knowingly harm you. Please understand how much you mean to me. Help me-and-our family-to weather this crisis do-whatever it takes to be able to stand by my side and to continue to be my partner in life. You never will regret it, I promise you”/Thomas Clouse, SR. More here. (SR 2002 file photo of Edgar Steele)

Question: What would be an appropriate message on a greeting card that Edgar Steele could send to his wife?

A Look At KTEC Ballot

Here’s a photo of the ballot measure from the proposed $9.5M levy in three school districts for today’s Kootenai Technical Education Campus levies. Kerri Thoreson provided the photo on her Facebook page.

Kerri Predicts Big KTEC Turnout

On Facebook, Kerri Thoreson writes: “By 9:15 a.m. nearly 60 people had already voted at Frederick Post Elementary in Post Falls in the KTEC election. I’m predicting a huge turnout by 8 p.m. today. Earlier this month there were only about 300 votes cast TOTAL throughout the entire Kootenai Fire & Rescue Protection District in their bond election. VOTE!”

Question: Use this Wild Card to report how the vote is going at your polling place — and to report any interesting situations that you encounter while voting?

KTEC Flyers @ LCHS Polling Place

A Berry Picker dropped by a flyer that he found with others at the Lake City High polling place for the Kootenai Technical Education Campus. The flyer is informational and doesn’t explicity urge a “Yes” vote on the proposed $9.5M levy proposal being voted upon in the Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, & Lakeland school districts today. But it does have such sections as “What benefit is this to me if I don’t have children in school?”

Question: Is it appropriate for the informational flyers to be placed at polling places for the KTEC levies vote?

Tanya: Tip Your Waiter 20 Percent

Writing for Off The Cuff (a University of Idaho column), Tanya says: “Saturday night I said goodbye to my career as a waitress. Now that I am no longer a member of the serving community, I would like to request a few things from the public. Please tip your server 20 percent since 10 percent is what they were tipped in 1980, do not say you are ready to order unless you really are, if you know you will need 15 cups of extra ranch then please give your server a heads-up, and remember servers are human too, and make mistakes sometimes.”

Question: Have you ever served as a waiter or waitress? What would you like to say to the dining public?

Ilya: Computer Images Killing Cinema

Also at the University of Idaho Argonaut, Illya Pinchuk laments that computer generated imagery is killing the movies: “Summer was a bad time for movies this year. Between ‘Iron Man 2,’ ‘Robin Hood’ and, God help me, the latest installation in the ‘Twilight’ saga, it’s not hard to see why many shunned theaters like they were the plague. To get my movie fix, I turned to Netflix and TV, catching up on ‘popular’ movie offerings I had missed out on. I was not impressed. Somewhere between the flashy-but-hollow ‘Avatar,’ the braindead-made-for-12-year-olds ‘Transformers 2,’ and the trying-too-hard ‘Star Trek,’ a realization hit me — I hadn’t seen a good movie in ages. What happened to the days of real-life action, of true comedy via social commentary, to the intelligent scrip-writing and the raw, masterful directing? Three letters: CGI.” More here. (AP file photo/20th Century Fox: Neytiri and Jake are shown in a scene from “Avatar.”)

Question: Which movie was the last good one that you’ve seen on the big screen that didn’t rely on computer generated images for action sequences?

Columnist: Real Men Don’t Wear Crocs

Everyone has that friend they like to grab a beer, watch a game or go on a road trip with him is some of the most fun you have ever had. You have stories about drinking so much one night that neither of you can believe you didn’t puke the next day. You have been close for years and will be for many more. But he has one habit that you cannot get past, and he knows it all too well. Your best friend has a pair of sky-blue crocs that appear whenever a trip to the beach is mentioned. Crocs, the rubbery combination of shoes and sandals, have been around for some time. They are perfectly acceptable in our society for little kids and old ladies, but grown men of reasonable intelligence should know better. Though crocs may have a certain level of comfort, they scream “lazy” and “haven’t grown up yet” to the rest of the world/Steve Carter, University of Idaho Argonaut. More here.

Question: Do real men wear Crocs?

INW: Iupati ‘Destined For Greatness’

Standout lineman Mike Iupati is shown hugging University of Idaho coach Robb Akey in the final moments of the Vandals victory over Bowling Green in the Humanitarian Bowl last Dec. 30. Now, Iupati is not only a San Francisco 49er lineman. But he also was selected by Bleacher Report as No. 4 of 15 NFL rookies this year who are destined for greatness. Click here.

High Noon: Gookin Lauds HBO Debate

In one of those rare even-a-broken-clock-is-right-twice-a-day moments, Dan Gookin of OpenCDA.com applauds Huckleberries Online for the discussion re: the Kootenai Technical Education Campus that has gone on here for a coupla days. Sez Gookin: “While I support the concept of KTEC, and welcome vocational education, I must applaud those in our community who have the courage to stand up and be against something.” You can read the rest here.

Question: Do you have the ability to disagree with people without developing a disagreeable attitude toward them?

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.24.10

  • Noonish: Post Falls officer is checking on panhandler @ I-90 & Spokane.
  • Noonish: Rathdrum juvenile has run away from N. Mill Street home.
  • 11:51 a.m. A fat male w/a bald head, driving a 1990 Nissan pickup, has stolen a purse from a vehicle @ 7th & Lakeside/CdA.
  • 11:31 a.m. Elderly male driving a brown pickup ran a stop sign @ Seltice Way & Cedar/Post Falls & may be drunk.
  • 11:30 a.m. Caller reports that a female in home @ Dalton & Valley has been yelling at a male for about a week.
  • 11:08 a.m. Male @ KCSD HQ reports daughter-in-law has stolen his mother’s credit card and may try to use it to bail out of jail.
  • Much more below

Julie: When’s Best For College Visits?

On her Facebook account, Julie Fanselow writes: “With my daughter starting her junior year at Boise High this week, we want to know: When’s the best time for college visits? Spring of junior year? Fall of senior year? Before she applies? After she’s admitted? Weekdays instead of weekends, I’m guessing? Any and all advice welcome and appreciated!” I’ve gone through the drill twice — and both my kids ended up in Portland area schools (Linfield College and University of Portland). That made it easier for us than those of you who have had to traipse all over the country, helping a child find the right college.

Question: When’s the best time for college visits?

Marc: Good Bye, Sweet Lou Piniella

Piniella, always worried about his pitching staff, hit upon the notion of going with a four-man rather than a five-man rotation. His next comment was priceless. ”Now at four in the morning it seemed to work for me,” Piniella said. “Whether it works at 7 o’clock at night or 1:30 in the afternoon, I’m not sure.” Exactly. What seems like gold at 4:00 a.m. often looks like something a lot less valuable in the cold light of day. In any event, we may never know if another of Lou’s middle-of-the-night brainstorms is a keeper, since he vows he is done with the dugout and, finally, really going to hang it up/Marc Johnson, The Johnson Report. More here. (AP file photo: Paul Beaty — On his next-to-last game as a Major League manager, Chicago Cubs Manager  Lou  Piniella yells at home plate  umpire  Dan Iassogna after Atlanta Braves Saturday.

Question: What do you remember fondly re: former Seattle Mariners manager Lou  Piniella, who retired from managing the Chicago Cubs Sunday?

Java Has Save Cougar Bay Petitions

On Twitter, Terry Harris of the Kootenai Environmental Alliance posts: “Not just because we got a great deal on an Americano this morning, we encourage everyone to head over to Java on Sherman and check out the Save Cougar Bay display they’ve allowed us to put up. Petition-signing is going very well there.”

Question: Which cause prompted you to last sign a petition?

HBO Poll: Exhibits Attract Fair Goers

  • Monday Poll: Berry Pickers go to the North Idaho Fair mainly to see the exhibits (43 of 136, 32%), eat the food (33 of 136, 24%), and to enjoy the entertainment (21 of 136, 15%). To a lesser extent, they also go to the fair to see the motorcycle races (9 votes), go to the carnival (8 votes), attend the rodeo (7 votes), and attend the Demolition Derby (6 votes). 9 of 136 respondents said there was yet another reason why they go to the fair.
  • Today’s Poll: Do you support the permanent repeal of the ‘death tax’?

Most Beautiful Woman Is From Mexico

Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete is crowned Miss Universe during the Miss Universe pageant, Monday in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Isaac Brekken)

Question: Are you surprised that the most beautiful woman in the world isn’t a blond?

Statesman: A Test For Phil Hart

Howard Griffiths, a registered Republican, is stepping in where Idaho Democrats couldn’t. The Hayden businessman has launched a write-in campaign to challenge GOP state Rep. Phil Hart — a six-year lawmaker who is, depending on your point of view, either a principled tax protester or a habitual tax scofflaw. Said Griffiths, who leans toward the latter school of thought: “Some politicians forget who they are working for and think they’re above the law.” One thing is certain. Before Griffiths announced his late challenge, Hart, of Hayden, was untouchable at the polls. He was — and still is — one of 46 Republicans who face no Democratic opponent in the Nov. 2 legislative elections. Democrats waved the white flag in 17 of 35 state Senate races, and 29 of 70 House races. Do Democrats remain the state’s minority party because they can’t recruit candidates, or do Democrats fail to recruit candidates because they’re a historic minority party? It doesn’t matter/Idaho Statesman Editorial Board. More here.

Question: How much do Democrats matter in Idaho?

Labrador Pledges To Repeal Death Tax

Republican candidate for Congress Raul Labrador has signed onto a pledge to repeal the estate tax.  The pledge request came from the American Family Business Institute (AFBI). … The estate tax, often called the death tax by its opponents, taxes the assets of deceased people passed down to from one generation to the next.  The federal estate tax is repealed for 2010.  Unless Congress acts, the estate tax will return next year, taxing all estates worth more than $1 million at a 55 percent rate. Labrador and other want to repeal it permanently.  The “Death Tax Repeal Pledge” is backed by more than 20 current members of Congress, including Rep. Mike Simpson and Sen. Mike Crapo, and more than 400 candidates for Congress this year/Brad Iverson-Long, Idaho Reporter. More here.

Question: Should the death tax be permanently repealed?

Marianne: Blame Insomnia On Parsnips

One of the rules for judges at the Bonner County Fair this year suggests that good judges should come rested and ready to concentrate on their jobs.  Must be my subconscious zeroed in on that rule last night cuz I have to judge the creative writing entries this afternoon. Whenever something important is happening the next day, my subconscious and possibly my brain conspire to keep me awake the night before. Something important happened every day when I was teaching school, so the insomnia card flashed across my mind virtually every night of my last 20-plus years as a teacher. ‘Twasn’t fun, as any insomniac will tell you/Marianne Love, Slight Detour. More here.

Question: How often do you have trouble sleeping? Why?

AM: Ex-Vandal Komar Catches TD

Arizona Cardinals (& former Univeristy of Idaho) wide receiver  Max  Komar  (18) scores a touchdown on a 22-yard pass play in the fourth quarter of a preseason NFL football game on Monday in Nashville, Tenn. Trying to stop  Komar are Titans defenders Nick Schommer, left, and Myron Rolle, right. (AP Photo/Frederick Breedon)

Poll: Palin-Obama Gap Melts To 1 Point

Obama’s new Gallup Poll job approval number is 47%. Last month it was 53%. Regular Ticket readers will recall how in this space in late November we pointed out that Obama’s closely watched job approval slide was coinciding with Palin’s little-noticed rise in favorability. And it appeared they might cross somewhere in the 40s. Well, ex-Sen. Obama, meet ex-Gov. Palin. The new CNN/Opinion Research Poll shows Palin now at 46% favorable. [A previous version of this post said that, at 46%, Palin was “just one point below her fellow basketball fan”/Los Angeles Times. More here

Question: What do you make of these polls that show favorability rankings of President Obama and Sarah Palin nearly identical?

KTEC Vote On Ballot Today

Item: KTEC levy voting takes place today: Polls open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in Lakeland, Post Falls, Coeur d’Alene/Coeur d’Alene Press

More Info: Polls are open today from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. in the Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls and Lakeland school districts. Voters in each of the three districts are being asked to approve a share of the financing to build a $9.5 million, 50,000-square-foot professional-technical high school. The building will be situated on land, already secured at no cost to taxpayers, on the Rathdrum Prairie, and will serve students from the three districts.

Question: Do you plan to vote today?

Task Force To Celebrate 2000 Verdict

The Kootenai County Task Force on Human Relations on Sept. 7 will mark the Sept. 7, 2000, day when a civil jury in Coeur d’Alene returned a verdict of $6.3 million against the white supremacist group after its guards attacked two people. The verdict forced Aryan Nations founder Richard Butler to give up his compound and the group eventually withered away. Butler died a few years later. Other groups have cropped up around the country that use the name Aryan Nations. The ceremony will be outside the Kootenai County Courthouse, near the downtown area where the Aryan Nations for years held public parades that drew a handful of supporters and large numbers of opponents/Associated Press. More here. (AP file photo: Richard Butler & his followers rally in July 1999.)

Question: Did you ever encounter Richard Butler or one of his hirelings during the heyday of the Aryan Nations?

Anderson: Party Of No

Nick Anderson/Houston Chronicle

Ground Zero Mosque Local Issue, Too?

We rallied together as Americans, Many from right here in Idaho traveled to New York and volunteered with clean up and the search for our brothers and sisters.  Many donated money to 9-11 charities or donated blood to the Red Cross for the injured.  To many the attack on New York was an attack on all of us.  It did not matter where in America you lived, this was personal. It’s still personal for many Americans. This is why the idea of building a Mosque so close the Ground Zero IS a local and a National issue/Idaho Conservative Blogger. More here.

Question: Do you agree with Idaho Conservative Blogger that the proposed mosque/Islamic center near Ground Zero is both a local and national issue?

P.S. Seattle, Boston Play Amid Rain

Seattle Mariners left fielder Ryan Langerhans can’t make the play on a single by Boston Red Sox Jed Lowrie, which bounced into the stands for another base, during the fifth inning of their baseball game in Boston today. Langerhans was charged with a fielding error on the play. The rain-hampered game is tied 3-3 in the seventh inning. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

Wild Card/Monday — 8.23.10

Cindy just sent an e-mail warning me that she’s going to have to do some work, if I don’t post the Wild Card soon. We can’t have that. So I’m posting it now. I’ve still have a couple dozen North Idaho Fair tickets to give away that’ll get you into the fair free on Wednesday (a savings of $7 or so). I awarded 18-20 tickets on Friday to individuals who bribed me with sweets, jokes, and other things in the comments section. But only one person has been by to pick them up. If you can think of a good reason why you should get tickets to the fair, feel free to use this Wild Card to plead your case …

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.23.10

  • 6:10 p.m. Signal light @ Mullan & Cecil is malfunctioning, according to PFPD Blue who sat thru 3 light cycles trying to turn.
  • 5:44 p.m. Caller reports that a runaway juvenile is en route from Albertson’s/Hayden to a mobile home park in 9400 block of Government Way.
  • 5:28 p.m. PFPD Blue is stopping to check 3 males @ Covington & Regal/Post Falls who may be involved in stealing fishing equipment.
  • 5:13 p.m. Caller reports disorderly male @ I-90 & 4th/CdA.
  • 4:51 p.m. Candy has questions re: trailer lights.
  • 4:23 p.m. Captain Apartments @ 1201 Lincoln Way/CdA reports panhandler in parking lot.
  • 3:45 p.m. Super 1/Hayden reports that a panhandler refuses to leave the store parking lot b/n Wells Fargo & Exxon station.
  • Much more below

PM Headlines — 8.23.10

The Idaho 2nd District courtroom at Lewiston was full today as Judge John Bradbury heard arguments on both sides of permitting large truckloads of oil refining equipment to traverse scenic, winding U.S. Highway 12 from Lewiston across Lolo Pass to Montana. Bradbury says he will take a day before deciding whether ConocoPhillips can begin hauling massive loads of oil equipment along U.S. Highway 12 in northern Idaho. Story below.  (AP Photo/Lewiston Tribune photo: Barry Kough)

APhoto Of The Day — 8.23.10

Idaho governor C.L. “Butch”  Otter reacts after missing the back legs of a calf while  team  roping  with the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association commissioner Karl Stressman at the Caldwell Night Rodeo on Friday in Caldwell. You write the cutline. (AP Photo/Idaho Press-Tribune, Charlie Litchfield)

Top Cutlines:

  • 1. Aww, man! Semanko promised I’d always win if I kept wearing Republican Red!! — DCR.
  • 2. The Governor reacts when he’s informed that Sarah Palin is planning to endorse his next reelection campaign — JohnA.
  • 3. Governor Butch Otter reacts to being told his roping score will not be counted as bonus points in the next debate against Democratic candidate Keith Allred — Voltron.
  • Nic

NIdaho Blogosphere — 8.23.10

You can find Linda Lantzy’s Idaho Scenic Images art in the Gallery at the Cedar Street Bridge in Sandpoint. Says Linda of this shot: “I love to see this great landmark being revitalized.” You can see photos from Linda’s recent trip through Montana and Wyoming on her Facebook site here.

Hucks Online numbers (for week of Aug. 15-21): 51,674 page-views/32,293 unique views

Idaho Docs, AMA Endorse Minnick

In campaign news today, Democratic congressman Walt Minnick was endorsed by the Idaho Medical Association and the American Medical Association, the groups that represent doctors in Idaho and nationwide. “IMA appreciates Congressman Minnick’s extensive efforts to reach out to the medical community on an ongoing basis,” said Susie Pouliot, CEO of the Idaho association. “He consistently reflects the values of his constituents and has shown the courage to vote accordingly.” Click here to read the full announcement/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Polling Places For KTEC Levies Tuesday

Via Facebook, Kerri Thoreson posts these polling places for the big vote Tuesday on the $9.5M levy elections in Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, and Lakeland school districts (all polls open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.):

  • Post Falls School District — Frederick Post, Ponderosa or Prairie View Elementary Schools.
  • In Lakeland School District — Athol, Betty Kiefer, Garwood, John Brown Spirit Lake Elementary Schools and Hauser Fire Station and Bayview Community Center.
  • In Coeur d’Alene School District — Ramsey and Hayden Meadows Elementary Schools, Lake City, Project CDA and Coeur d’Alene High Schools, and Lakes Magnet Middle School.

Question: Do you intend to vote Tuesday? How do you plan to vote?

Jeanie: Close Encounter w/Hobo Spider

JeanieS: The scanner report always entertains. This didn’t make the scanner report, but yesterday at 5:15 pm, Mechanic Man was busy sorting through garage sale tool box finds, when he spied a very large spider (e.g., hobo spider? our 6th or 7th in a row) and aimed the first thing that came to his hand - lighter fluid. The spider ran off and hid and then when he thought Mechanic Man was preoccupied, made a beeline directly at him, limping and jiggling (probably doped up on lighter fluid) whereupon MM smashed him on the spot. It appears he was a drunk, hit and run. end of scanner report from this household.

Question: Have you had a close encounter w/a hobo spider?

ID Blogs: NYT WSJ Notice Guv’s Race

The New York Times took notice of Idaho’s governor’s race on its political blog today, referencing a Wall Street Journal story over the weekend headlined, “In Idaho, GOP Incumbent Sees Wide Lead Erode.” That story, datelined Idaho Falls, where the WSJ reporter caught the first debate between Gov. Butch Otter and Democratic challenger Keith Allred, reported, “Thanks in part to anti-incumbent sentiment, Democratic challenger Keith Allred has been steadily chipping away at Mr. Otter’s wide lead in the polls. … While few pundits expect Mr. Otter to lose, they say his opponent is proving surprisingly strong in a state that last elected a Democratic governor 20 years ago”/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: What odds do you think Las Vegas would give re: Demo Keith Allred knocking off incumbent Gov. Butch Otter?

Jumping For Joy & Free Fair Tickets

Facebook friend Denise Durflinger posted a photo that she has entered in the North Idaho Fair photography contest — the bride and her bridemaids jumping for joy following a picture-perfect wedding at Riverstone Park in Coeur d’Alene Saturday afternoon. From left to right, Laura (Engelbrecht) Carter, Kimi Slonaker, blushing bride Alisha Engelbrect Parson, Tracie Foreman, and Amber (Durflinger) Engelbrecht. Denise earns fair tickets for giving Hucks permission to post this photo here.

Question: Do you need tickets to North Idaho Fair Wednesday? All you have to do is tell me why you deserve them.

Mom Buys Vodka For Son, Girl Raped

Spokane police are investigating what they believe is the stabbing and the rape of a 14-year-old girl last week at a party fueled by a half-gallon of vodka supplied by the suspect’s mother.The girl was taken to Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center, where she was treated for at least 10 cuts on her leg. While at the hospital, investigators learned that she had a blood alcohol content of 0.4 percent (five times the limit of 0.08 at which adults are considered legally drunk) according to court records. The mother, 41-year-old Andrienna L. McDaniel, told The Spokesman-Review that she felt it was safer to supply the teenagers with alcohol at home. She pointed out several times that they already had the money for the purchase/Tom Clouse, SR. More here.

Question: What would you have done if you were this teen’s parent?

Tiger Woods, Wife Officially Divorce

Tiger  Woods, his daughter, Sam, and wife Elin Nordegren, are shown before a NCAA college football game in Stanford, Calif., last November.  Woods and his wife are officially divorced. The lawyers for  Woods and Nordegren said in a statement that the  divorce became official today in Bay County Circuit Court, in Panama City, Fla. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

Question: Do you hope that Tiger Woods returns to being a premier golfer now that his marital troubles are behind him? Or do you care at all?

Lola Hagadone In Minor Accident

For those keeping score at home, Lola Hagadone, 69, of Casco Bay, was cited for an unsafe lane change that resulted in a two-vehicle crash @ 3rd & Coeur d’Alene in downtown Coeur d’Alene area at4:30 p.m. last Wednesday, according to Coeur d’Alene police reports. Neither driver was injured. Hagadone’s Lincoln Navigator sustained $2500 damage, while the other driver’s 2001 Subaru station wagon suffered $3000 damage. This was first reported on Scanner Traffic.

CdA Woman Finds Bear On Porch

Fish & Game officers are en route to 953 Rutledge/Potlatch Hill, where a home owner reports there’s a black bear on her porch. Officers have asked if it’s OK to use bean-bag guns and other scare devices to chase bear off. A Coeur d’Alene police officer is wary re: exciting the bear, despite the anxiety of the female yelling at him from the window. Officer says he’d rather have Fish & Game officers handle the problem, as they did at his house a few weeks ago. A second officer said that the bear appears to have been attracted to the home by the smell of barbecue and may now be wandering off on his own. (Update: A Berry Picker called Huckleberries to report that the bear in this instance is a young one who is seen regularly foraging for food before winter sets in. And it hasn’t been causing any problems.)

Cis: Reaching Your Breaking Point

Who of us of the work force, hasn’t thought that (“Take This Job and Shove It”) at least once and actually many times. … Even housewives have thought it. Some have actually ran away … I sent a friend many years ago, into fits of laughter when he caught me talking to myself. I was on the floor scrubbing with a brush some extra heavy dirt or stains. And mumbled aloud … “I am going to break out of this joint one of these days”. So when we see in the media that some one has finally reached the breaking point, we understand. … We all have different breaking points. Some of them (are) stretched to the max due to survival. Some who can’t take it anymore but can’t put their families in jeopardy. Or in this day and age, are so grateful for a job in a jobless market, that endure all kinds of abuse in the workforce. Sadly some bosses know that.

Question: Have you ever gone Johnny Paycheck on a boss and told him to “Take This Job and Shove It”?

Federal $$$ Won’t Result In Levy Cuts

Several school districts set to receive thousands of dollars in federal education money likely won’t undo levies approved by taxpayers earlier this though one school district in eastern Idaho is considering reducing its levy because of federal education dollars. School districts across Idaho, facing cuts due to large gaps in state funding for education, asked voters for levies in the spring and summer months, and the majority of district requests were approved.  Two districts (Jerome and Preston) will receive more federal money than local money approved for them this year.  Others, including American Falls and Shelley, are receiving chunks of federal dollars that equal only a portion of levy amounts approved by voters.  One district, the Sugar-Salem School District, has plans to consider reducing its levy, but others likely won’t because they say such a move would be illegal/Dustin Hurst, Idaho Reporter. More here.

Question: Should Idaho school districts that receive federal education dollars reduce levies, if legally possible?

INW Headlines — 8.23.10

Nurse Tashi Haarsma removes an IV from Brent Cordie, 17, Sunday, in Willamette Valley Medical Center in McMinnville, Ore. All but three of the 19 players who suffered muscle damage during preseason practice at McMinnville (Ore.) High School are expected to be out of the hospital today. Dr. Craig Winkler says the results of blood tests due this week will determine whether any of the players ingested a supplement such as creatine that could explain what happened to them. See story below. (AP Photo/The Oregonian, Brent Wojahn)

High Noon: OK To Spy Via Facebook?

On Facebook, Sidekick Cindy confesses to checking out her son Alex’s date’s Facebook profile page to get some idea re: the girl his boy was going to date. And she admitted feeling a little guilty that she had. But other moms responded she had done no wrong. Said one: “Oh, I am definitely going to cyberstalk all of my kids’ dates. That’s just good parenting!” And another: “You only have to feel guilty if you post her name and get everyone to also go check her out… And then allow everyone to discuss her flaws…” And still another: “No, I have three girls and it does not seem unreasonable to me.” I noticed that no men responded to the inquiry.

Question: Is it OK to check out the Facebook pages belonging to someone who is going to date a child of yours?

Jumping In A Lake

Via Pecky Cox’s Facebook page … John Crowley snapped this photo of three youngsters taking a plunge into Priest Lake.

Question: Have you been swimming in a North Idaho lake or river this summer? How many times?

Big Mac: Teaching Isn’t That Easy

Big Mac: When my son was born, I quit my teaching job and became a stay-at-home dad. With my wife working full time, I just didn’t think I could teach and have a young child at the same time. That’s because I spent 60-70 hours a week on my job, leaving me little spare time to be a father. When my kids go to school, I’ll go back to the classroom. Almost all of the teachers and administrators I’ve know have been extremely dedicated people. There are a few who just don’t care, as there are in any profession, but I would say that 95% of educators were as committed as I was to the job and worked the same hours. Of the eight hours of the school day, I spent six hours in direct instruction. During the other two hours I was busy supervising lunch and working with students one-on-one. I ate my lunch standing up, on duty, keeping students in line during their lunch. I had no breaks at all during those eight hours. Each night I spent 2-3 hours either correcting papers or preparing for the next day’s classes.

Question: Do you have a positive view or negative view toward public education?

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.23.10

  • 11:54 a.m. Caller reports hearing someone shooting in campground @ 9397 H97.
  • 11:42 a.m. Teen boys are riding dirtbikes on Lennox Loop/CdA w/o helmets in reckless manner.
  • 11:35 a.m. Caller reports landlord trapping cats under home on Cranston/Hayden.
  • 11:32 a.m. Ambulances are transporting 3 patients to hospital from head-on crash on H95 & Chatcolet/Worley area.
  • 10:44 a.m. Caller reports to Kootenai Electric Coop that he’s found two spools of utility’s wire.
  • More below

Remember The Roxy: Ratskeller Inn

How many of you remember the Ratskeller Inn? One of the bylaws on this “membership card,” photographed in the 1960s, is that all members were entitled to unlimited credit — “as long as it is accompanied by cash.” OrangeTV has posted a bunch of new photos of old Coeur d’Alene and North Idaho on his old Remember the Roxy Web site here.

HBO Poll: No To Ground Zero Mosque

  • Weekend Poll: Overwhelmingly, Hucks Online readers don’t support construction of a proposed Mosque and Islamic center near Ground Zero. 253 of 412 respondents (61%) said they do not support the project. 147 of 412 respondents (36%) said they did. 12 of 412 (3%) were undecided.
  • Today’s Question (multiple choice): Why do you attend the North Idaho Fair?

Jorgenson, Blocks ‘Discontinued’

Dunno why the individual selling these blocks used a campaign sign belonging to state Sen. Mike Jorgenson to prop up his advertisement: “Discontinued block $1 each.” But it amused a Berry Picker who provided Hucks Online with the photo. After all, Jorgenson also was “discontinued” in the GOP primary in May when relative newcomer Steve Vick upset his bid for re-election. You can find the discontinued pile of blocks about a block north of Hayden City Hall on Government Way.

Kevin: UI, BSU Garb Mix Occasionally

On Facebook, Kevin Richert, Idaho Statesman opinion editor, tells of moving his first son into his first college apartment over the weekend, at the University of Idaho. Then, he mentions seeing a strange sight from the back-to-college weekend: “At a Moscow restaurant, we saw a kid wearing a Vandal hoodie and a BSU camo baseball cap. Not sure what to make of it. Maybe he’s a born mediator. Maybe he lost a wager.”

Question: What statement do you think the kid was trying to make?

OTV Review: Iron Horse Surprises

Whether my comment was funny or not is arguable, but it wasn’t entirely based in humor. My prior experiences at the Iron Horse hadn’t been so fantastic. Lackadaisical service, questionable cleanliness, and unremarkable cuisine were the main issues, and really, what’s left to love after that? Perhaps they were just having a bad day or two, perhaps a bad year or two, but I can’t say I was too broken up about getting 86’d for good. So when I decided recently that enough time had passed and hopefully I wouldn’t get beat up or be asked to leave, I arranged to meet a friend at the Iron Horse for lunch. After one of the most enjoyable and relaxing experiences I’ve had dining out in recent memory, I’m happy to finally eat my words and retract anything rotten I’ve said about the downtown landmark in the past/OrangeTV, Get Out! North Idaho. More here.

  • SR photo: Jesse Tinsley snapped those photo last Dec. 29, two days before my wife & I enjoyed a wonderful New Year’s Eve meal at the Iron Horse, my mother-in-law’s favorite place in town.

Question: What has been your dining experience at the Iron Horse?

Downtown CdA Bar Report (Aug. 12-18)

At 1:55 Saturday morning, Aug. 14: Officers responded to a fight call at the Icon involving three females fighting (pulling hair and punching) and approximately 50 people standing in front of the bar watching the fight. The fight had started earlier on the dance floor in the Icon when the suspect female hit another female in the face with a beer bottle. The suspect was asked by bouncers to leave. Later on, outside the bar, the suspect threw another bottle at the victim hitting her in the face, and the fight ensued. The suspect female (19 yrs) was arrested for battery.

Question: Which incident is your favorite in the latest Downtown Coeur d’Alene Bar Report?

Mike: Jack Sensitive Re: ‘Pirates’

On Facebook, Councilman Mike Kennedy tells of a new family euphemism for part of the male anatony. It all started when Jack, 3, declared: “Don’t touch my pirates!” after his little brother accidentally “hit him in the part of the anatomy that makes all men cringe,” according to his father. He meant to say “privates,” of course. But, pop says, “I like his new word better.”

Question: Do you have any funny family euphemisms?

Mike: Huey Lewis Aging Better Than Us

On Facebook, Councilman Mike Kennedy reports that Huey Lewis & the News were near the top of their game at the weekend concert in Spokane. Writes Mike on Facebook: “The band sounded great and there was only one replacement in the core band from 25 years ago. Fun night.” In a separate post, Mike adds that “Huey Lewis has aged better than the rest of us.”

Question: Which favorite rocker of yours has aged the best?

AM Headlines — 8.23.10

David Williams pilots the “Miss Wahoo” in front of the Coeur d’alene resort Sunday, the first time any  hydroplane  has been on the lake in 42 years. “Emotionally, it felt amazing to be driving a hydro on Lake Couer d’alene,” he said. Pia Hallenberg’s SR story here. (SR photo: J. Bart Rayniak)

Hucks: Docs Saved NFL Star’s Career

If it weren’t for the work of three doctors way back when, Jerry Kramer might not have become a star for the Idaho Vandals and Green Bay Packers. Nor would he have received his first game ball without playing a down during his junior year at Sandpoint High. I discovered how Kramer almost missed his sterling career as a pro footballer by picking up a garage sale special in Hayden recently – Kramer’s 1969 book, “Farewell to Football.” For $1, hardbound. Among other things (including his start in football at Farmin Elementary), Kramer describes how he was laid up when he was awarded the game ball following Sandpoint’s 45-0 victory over Bonners Ferry. Seems he’d nearly blown his arm off with his grandpa’s double-barrel, 10-gauge shotgun while duck hunting with Bulldog running back George Kom four days before. Kramer’d used the wrong end of the gun to poke a ball of moss into the water from his perch on a two-story-high rock/DFO, Huckleberries, SR Handle Extra. More here.

Travelogue: Bring Back Hydroplanes

Travelogue: Growing up I attended numerous Hydroplane races. I’ve been to some where the crowds were very unruly and out of control. Over the years and at the last few races I attended I noticed the promoters had things well in hand. There were no more A-Holes during those events than you’d find at any other event like Car d’ Alene etc. In the late 60’s CDA didn’t have the infrastructure to handle the crowds, and the promoters didn’t provide their own crowd management. Drinking wasallowed everywhere. Now a days CDA has grown. Hotels, Restaurants and facilities to handle large crowds as we do with the many other events hosted here. The Hydroplane events today are very well organized and the potentials our few old fuddy duddy’s worry about are kept very well in check. (SR photo: J. Bart Rayniak)

Question: Do you think crowds watching hydroplane races on the Lake Coeur d’Alene north shore and it downtown Coeur d’Alene would be easier to handle today than they were in the 1960s?

509IYL: Always Vote No On Schools

509ifyourlucky: Its not like the past school years past when some supplies were provided by the school districts. I never support any school levies I always vote NO on any and all ballot issues that say school in them. Here’s why. 1 Teachers only care about when their next smoke break is. 2 Teachers never really do the job they are hired to do. 3 Teachers as well as Administrators always want more of your hard earned money and not do anything to earn it. 4 I never support any school fund raises like for uniforms or class trips. Everyone’s school tax dollars should be better spent on teacher / performance test scores not teachers and administrators who just show up and do nothing.

Question: What do you make of 509ifyourlucky’s outlook toward schools?

Ramirez: Only Place To Build It?

Michael Ramirez/Investor’s Business Daily

Weekend Wild Card — 8.21-22.10

The only definite plans I have this weekend is to hear Kelly Hughes and his band play at the bandshell in City Park from 1 to 4 Sunday. For some reason, I’ve always missed the Sunday that Hughes was on the Handshake Productions docket. I plan to go early and stay to the end. Also, I have about 20 of the 50 tickets to the North Idaho Fair Wednesday given away. We’ll give the rest away Monday and Tuesday. Now, for your Wild Card …

Venomous Vixens Face Rolling Hills Next

Inked Envy has just produced this poster for the next Roller Derby game involving the local Snake Pit Venomous Vixens. The Vixens will be taking on the Rolling Hills Derby Dames of Moscow at Skate Plaza Sunday, Sept. 19. The Vixens are 1-1 after beating the Hellgate Rollergirls recently. Huckleberries Online will remind you of the next bout as it nears. (BTW, Inked Envy, the tattoo shop at 1510 Northwest Blvd, designed the poster)

Question: What would be your pseudonym of your were a member of the Snake Pit Venomous Vixens?

School Supply Drives Falling Short

Item: School supply drives are falling far short: Need is even greater this year, organizations say/Jody Lawrence-Turner, SR

Spokesman-Review Editorial Board: These lists ought to be turned over to local school boards. Before they decide on administrative expenses, such as the thousands of dollars in annual raises for top administrators, they ought to ensure that students will have basic supplies. It’s true that levy money ought to be spent on the advertised items, but perhaps it’s time to run a levy for school supplies. Financing enrichment programs before covering basic supplies is backward. More here.

Question: Would you support money to be included in a levy to provide basic school supplies for students in your school district?

Boise State No. 3 In AP Preaseason Poll

The Boise State football team is No. 3 in the preseason Associated Press Top 25 — the highest ranking in any major poll in school history. The poll was released Saturday morning. The Broncos even received a first-place vote. Defending champion Alabama is No. 1. Ohio State is No. 2. Florida is No. 4. Texas is No. 5. Virginia Tech is No. 10. The Broncos open the season Sept. 6 against Virginia Tech at FedExField in Landover, Md. Boise State was No. 5 and Virginia Tech No. 6 in the USA Today Coaches’ Poll. The opener is the fourth matchup of Top 10 teams in Boise State history. The Broncos lost to Louisville in the 2004 Liberty Bowl and beat Oklahoma in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl and TCU in the 2010 Fiesta Bowl. Oregon State, the Broncos’ opponent for the home opener, is No. 24/Chadd Cripe, Idaho Statesman. More here. (AP file photo of BSU coach Chris Petersen)

Question: Will Boise State finish the season ranked in the Top 5?

TV Crew Helps Cops Nab CdA Fugitive

A Seattle television crew helped police nab a Coeur d’Alene fugitive who failed to report back to North Idaho authorities following a day-long furlough. Seattle Police say they arrested Ferrell David Arnold, 32, in a park where people were setting up for an outdoor festival called Hempfest. Minutes before the arrest, KOMO 4 News photojournalist Peter Mongillo and reporter Lindsay Cohen spotted who they believed was Arnold walking with a group of friends along a bicycle trail in Seattle’s Myrtle Edwards Park. As police officers rode by on bicycles, Mongillo recorded Cohen as she asked Arnold a few questions. As the interview concluded, Cohen asked Arnold for his name and where he was from, which he replied, “David Arnos” and said he was from Coeur d’Alene/Jared Richardson, KXLY. More here.

Rossi Won’t Accept Tea Partier’s Demands

Tea Party favorite Clint Didier said Friday he won’t endorse fellow Republican Dino Rossi in the Senate race against Patty Murray until Rossi agrees to take strong positions against abortion, taxes and government spending. Rossi’s campaign promptly replied that he won’t submit to “demands made by anyone, even people with whom he agrees.” Didier, who was endorsed by former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin and Rep. Ron Paul, said that while he dearly wants “to send Patty Murray home with her pink slip in her hand,” he couldn’t make a halfhearted endorsement of Rossi and still remain true to supporters who gave him 12.5 percent of the vote in Tuesday’s primary/Associated Press. More here.

Question: Are you surprised that the Tea Party candidate for U.S. senator in Washington pulled only 12.5% of the vote, even with Sarah Palin’s endorsement?

Cartoonist Retiring ‘Cathy’ Strip

Cathy Guisewite doesn’t know what the last four panels of her “Cathy” comic strip will look like when they run in 700 daily and Sunday U.S newspapers in early October. In fact, even after a nearly nonstop, 34-year run of putting words in the mouth and anxieties in the mind of her alter ego, she’s hard-pressed during an interview to say what the next four panels will look like – even though a deadline looms in less than 24 hours. “Quick, give me ideas!” Guisewite says as she sits behind the desk of her Studio City, Calif., home office/Los Angeles Times. More here.

Question: Which currently running comic strip is your favorite? Why?

Signe: Dealing With Summer Pests

Signe Wilkinson/Philadelphia Inquirer

Shock Capture ArenaBowl XXIII 69-57

The best team in the Arena Football League saved its best for last. The Spokane Shock, despite losing two defensive starters in the first 5 minutes, put together their most complete performance of the season, punctuating their inaugural AFL campaign with a convincing 69-57 ArenaBowl XXIII victory over the Tampa Bay Storm on Friday in front of a franchise-record 11,017 at the Arena. The No. 1-ranked Shock (16-3) will hang another championship banner on the Arena walls, to go along with the two Spokane earned in four seasons as a member of arenafootball2. Tampa Bay (13-6), the most successful franchise in the AFL’s 23-year history, was denied as it tried to add to its league-record five titles/Jim Meehan, SR. More here.

Question: Did you watch any Spokane Shock games at the Spokane Arena this year?

Cindy: No Crying In Baseball, Unless …

On Facebook, sidekick Cindy posts: “Whoever said “There’s no crying in baseball,” has never been beaned by a fastball.” That started an e-mail exchange between Cindy and me during which I mentioned that I had once, as a Babe Ruth League (13-15) pitcher, tried to hit a kid with a pitch. Cindy asked: “What did he do to you?” I then told her he hadn’t done anything to me. But my buddy at shortstop didn’t like me. So he asked me to hit the batter for him. I didn’t want to hit him hard. So I threw a curveball at his head and missed. The ump who knew something was up then threatened to kick me out of the game if I ever tried that nonsense again.

Question: Have you ever been hit by a baseball,soccer ball, hockey puck, volleyball, golf ball, etc.?

P.S. Performing Bear Mauls Caretaker

In this March 18, 2006 file photo, during an exhibition wrestling match at a sportsmen’s show in Cleveland, Lance Palmer takes on Ceaser, a 650-pound black  bear owned by Sam Mazzola. On Thursday, another  bear  owned by Mazzola fatally mauled its caretaker at Mazzola’s animal sanctuary. Mazzola accumulated dozens of dangerous, exotic animals despite past convictions and losing his license after animal rights activists complained he was making money by letting people wrestle  bears. Story here. (2006 AP file photo/Jamie-Andrea Yanak, File)

Fair Ticket Giveaway WC — 8.20.10

Update: I’ve given out 14 to 16 tickets today (although TLPoelstra is the only one to actually pick some up. Will continue to give them out Monday & Tuesday.

Gotta lot of good ideas re: contests to use to give away tickets to the opening of the North Idaho Fair next Wednesday. Blogmistress suggests that we have a cutest kid in North Idaho contest — and declared her family the winner. Stacy said we should have the a cookoff featuring the best chocolate chip cookie or some other baked good or treat that I might suggest (strawberry rhubarb). KevinT suggested several contests, including one that involves adverb rolling against KageMann. (BTW, each of the aforementioned people wins 2 tickets, if they contact me by e-mail today, daveo@spokesman.com) to claim them. I’ll think of other ways to give out the 50 extra tickets I have. Now, for your Wild Card …

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.20.10

  • 5:52 p.m. Males on Jetskis are turning circles around boater on Hauser Lake who doesn’t appreciate their stunt.
  • 5:18 p.m. Homeowner @ 7067 Heritage/CdA reports lost 3YO boy knocked on his door.
  • 5:17 p.m. Target officials reports loiterers at the Coeur d’Alene store.
  • 4:50 p.m. Caller reports that 3 teen males and 2 teen females threatened him with a knife in Black Bay parking lot. He doesn’t want to get tires of red Jeep slashed.
  • 4:38 p.m. Firefighters are involved in mopup operations @ Hauser Lake & H53.
  • 3:57 p.m. Signals are malfunctioning on n/b H41 to get onto w/b I-90.
  • More below

PM: Shock, Storm Battling @ Arena

Spokane  Shock quarterback Kyle Rowley gets solid protection from his line as he throws a touchdown to Shaun Kauleinamoku in first half action against the Arizona Rattlers at the  Spokane Arena last month. Rowley is facing a stiff Storm rush afternoon as they began ArenaBowl championship play at 5 o’clock against the visiting Tampa Bay Storm at Spokane Arena. Jim Meehan’s SR story about today’s game here. And: Folo Ryan Pitts’ Twitter from game here. (SR file photo: Christopher Anderson)

Question: Anyone dare to predict final score?

APhoto Of The Day — 8.20.10

Fans watch Matt Buyten fly through the air during the Boost Mobile FreestyleMX.com Tour event on the first day of the Lane County Fair in Eugene, Ore. Wednesday. Buyten was doing a backflip. (AP Photo/The Register-Guard, Kevin Clark)

Top Cutlines:

  • 1. Matt finds out the hard way what happens when bikers see you in Sturgis on anything other than a Harley — JohnA.
  • 2. During a mandatory Idaho parenting class, Matt watches how not to let his 4 year old ride his bike — Phaedrus.
  • 3. Shortly after this picture was taken, Matt was escorted to the Emergency Room to have a kickstand removed from his sphincter — Soaf.
  • HM: Charlie

NI Blogs: FHB Touches 9/11 History

Check out this moving photo of Frum Helen Back touching the World Trade Center beams at Cruisers. She writes on her wall: “Yesterday was a busy day with a wonderful evening event. I saw on the news that two beams from the Twin Towers was at Cruisers. My chauffeur drove me there so I could touch a piece of what survived that terrible attack on our Country, our flag, and our way of life.”

Hucks Online numbers (for Wednesday): 9775/6014 and (for Thursday) 9758/5830

Shock Invite To Rossi Upsets Tribe

Here is a little-known fact about the Spokane Shock: Their playing field has a name. That name honors one of their major sponsors. The name is Spokane Tribe Field, and the Spokane Tribal leadership is not pleased that the Shock have invited Dino Rossi, the Republican challenger to U.S. Senator Patty Murray,  to take the field as honorary captain for tonight’s sold-out ArenaBowl game against the Tampa Bay Storm. In addition to an inappropriate mixing of politics and sports, the Tribe says in a press release this afternoon that Rossi has been particularly unfriendly to Indian Country issues. Two years ago, during his second failed run against Gov. Christine Gregoire, Rossi said the Spokane and other Washington tribes “laundered” casino money by contributing to Gregoire. The Rossi campaign ran attack ads on the issue all fall in 2008, calling the money “a payoff” and a “quid pro quo”/Kevin Taylor, Inlander. More here. (SR file photo of Shock owner Brady Nelson)

DFO: Beth Bollinger/Accidentally Rabbit Trails contacted me today re: this. She exchanged e-mails with Shock Owner Brady Nelson this morning to express her anger. You can read those exchanges in descending order here.

Question: Should sports franchises be extra careful in inviting politicians to serve as an honorary captain for the team or throw out a first pitch?

Lake City Area Joblessness Hits 10%

The state’s second largest metropolitan area, Coeur d’Alene, broke a three-month run of single-digit rates, edging up a third of a point to 10 percent. The rate was in double digits from August through March.  The rate in Canyon County, the second most populous county and part of the Boise metro area, dropped slightly from June but remained at 11.1 percent – the 15th straight month of double digits.  Overall, a dozen counties had July rates over 10 percent, two more than in June when declining rates in a majority of the counties drove the statewide rate down two-tenths to 8.8 percent. Eight counties had double-digit rates in July 2009.  Shoshone County had the highest rate in July at 12.6 percent. Teton County was the lowest at 4.7 percent, the only county under 5 percent in July/Idaho Labor Department. Idaho Reporter story here

Question: Do you know of people who have recently been laid off? Or who are still struggling to find work after a long time looking for it?

WSU Students Return To School

For the untrained ear, the sound of thunder might have been heard over an otherwise sunny campus. But really, it was the sound of rumbling wheels bouncing on concrete and asphalt, as thousands of Washington State University students returned to residence halls for the new school year/WSU News Service.

Question: Did you live in a dorm during your underclassmen years? What was that like?

Living With ‘The Bare Necessities’

On The Mouse That Roars blog, North Idaho resident Patrice Lewis discusses what it’s like to live a coupla miles from the nudist Sun Meadow Resort, near Worley. She includes a tongue-in-cheek observation that North Idaho nudist must be heartier than most of their peers, given the weather here in all but the midsummer. And this: “Our local parcel delivery guy, a friendly chatty fellow, makes frequent deliveries to the nudist resort, and boy howdy does he have some stories to tell.  And one of those stories is: if your vision of a nudist colony is a collection of gorgeous, toned, six-pack-abs kinda people, think again. But if this newspaper article is to be believed, that’s the whole point of a nudist resort.  It doesn’t matter what you look like.  It is – quite literally – the great equalizer.  And I guess therein lies the appeal.” More here.

  • Cutline: Sun Meadow Resort developers Linda and Tom Janson are shown in this 2007 SR file photo by Jesse Tinsley.

Question: So what vision do you have of a nudist colony — “gorgeous, toned, six-pack-abs kinda people”? Or ordinary flabby ones that you wouldn’t want to see in a fitness club lockerroom?

Blog: Things Still Looking UP For UI, USU

The best part of this is for The University of Idaho and Utah State who are poised to take over where Boise State and Fresno Left off. The University of Idaho in football after the momentum we had last year and the stability we have finally achieved with our leadership and program directors. After so many years of struggles and trials it is nice to see upward progress being made Utah State is a player in basketball. They are unarguably the top dogs when it comes to hoops and their football program is on the upswing with Gary Anderson at the helm. They could be atop the WAC. If BYU still manages its master plan of independence, with all other sports in the WAC, and the possibility of bringing SDSU with them, it could turn the WAC into a 2 Bid NCAA Tournament overnight in Basketball/Shon, No Cannot Have!. More here.

DFO: This post enables Hucks Online to introduce you the blogger No Cannot Have!, a big-time Idaho Vandal fan, living in Salt Lake City, who has been all over the conference ralignment via blog & Twitter.

Question: What do you think of the bottom line of No Cannot Have! that University of Idaho and Utah State University are in a good position to become the powers of a new Western Athletic Conference?

Idaho Blogs: A Weighty Issue For Otter

The shipments controversy exposes some of Otter’s potential weaknesses. An uninspiring record on environmental issues. A cozy relationship with business, such as the trucking industry. It also plays into one of Democratic challenger Keith Allred’s recurring themes — the suggestion that Otter makes snap decisions without vetting things out. Allred didn’t take a position for or against the shipments at a recent town hall meeting in Boise, but has criticized Otter for consulting only with shipping supporters/Kevin Richert, Idaho Statesman. More here.

Question: On a scale of 1 to 10, how much concern do you think Gov. Butch Otter has for the environment?

INW: KTC Beams Impact Lake City

Eight-year-old Hannah Mears of Spokane took a moment to touch one of the World Trade Center beams that was on display at Lone Wolf Harley Davidson in Coeur d’Alene this morning. The beams are being transported from New York to Silverdale, Wash., A for the Kitsap 9-11 Memorial Project in Kitsap County, Wash. More here. (SR photo: Kathy Plonka)

High Noon: A Purr Never Hurt Anyone

Several years ago, local author Niki Anderson wrote a best-seller titled “What My Cat Has Taught Me About Life.” I thought about that title as our own kitty, Milo, recently celebrated his first year of owning us. We had set out to adopt an older female feline, so I wouldn’t be the only girl at home. We ended up with another hyperactive baby boy. Go figure/Cindy Hval, Washington Voices/SR. More here.

Question: Have you learned anything about life from your pet?

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.20.10

  • 11:58 a.m. PFPD Blue asks for firefighter “to break a window for me.”
  • 11:40 a.m. Silverwood Theme Park reports an accident involving a semi at entrance.
  • 11:37 a.m. 2 children about 3YO & 4YO are walking unattended past Lakeland High.
  • 11:35 a.m. CPD Blues are looking for 16YO male, with pierced ears and lip, who’s run away after stealing 2005 Honda.
  • 11:17 a.m. A Rathdrum woman has locked the keys & baby in vehicle in driveway.
  • 10:54 a.m. Someone has been hurt in a fall in Bank of America lot/Appleway.
  • 10:03 a.m. Caller reports a driver is reading a book @ H41 & M/P 3 (Hayden Avenue)
  • 9:47 a.m. A father has taken his 18MO daughter who has blue eyes and a purple bow in her hair and her diaper bag from Post Falls day care w/o permission.
  • 9:32 a.m. A male in a tie-dye shirt, with a black dog, is hitchhiking @ I-90 & Seltice Way/Post Falls.
  • 9:35 a.m. A vehicle is stalled on Spokane Street/Post Falls onramp.
  • 9:17 a.m. Firefighters are checking out a possible illegal burn @ 3728 Sky Harbor/CdA.
  • 8:42 a.m. A mattress is hanging from a guardrail on H95 @ M/P 427.5 (Cougar Gulch Road)
  • 8:34 a.m. Todd from the bailiff’s office reports a battery on 3rd floor of old Kootenai County courthouse.
  • 8:31 a.m. Caller reports a small, dead animal on road @ I-90 & Northwest Boulevard. To which a patrol officer responds: “There was a raccoon there earlier. It’s no hazard.”
  • 8:21 a.m. E/b traffic light is out @ 3rd & Lakeside/CdA.
  • 8:13 a.m. Caller reports a wanted male was at his brother’s house last evening in 1600 block of 3rd/Post Falls.

Marshals Capture Arizona Fugitive

John McCluskey is shown being taken into custody Thursday, Aug. 19, 2010 by U.S. Marshals in eastern  Arizona. McCluskey and his fiancee Casslyn Welch have been on the lam since July 30. They’d been sought in the Inland Northwest and Northwest Montana and Canada. Both were apprehended at an eastern  Arizona campground on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Story here. (AP Photo/U.S. Marshals Office)

Question: Does this photo meet Cindy’s never-ending demands for beefcate?

Celebrating Birthday @ NIdaho Fair

Mary Jo Moore has a daughter whose birthday always coincided with the Kootenai County Fair. When that child turned 4, the family went to the fair and the little girl thought it was swell that so many people turned out to help celebrate her birthday/Paul Turner, The Slice/SR. More here.

Question: Does your birthday land on an important day?

Atlas, Centennial Trails To Connect

This just in from Coeur d’Alene Ped Bike Facebook page: “The Atlas Trail is being extended under I-90 and will contect to the Centennial Trail. The project is scheduled to be completed by the middle of September.”

Question: How cool is this?

Semanko Wins Debate Spin Contest

Idaho GOP Chairman Norm Semanko used 408 words to tout the success of Gov. Butch Otter in Thursday’s debate with Democrat Keith Allred, the first of four between the pair. Asked whether he wanted to reply, Allred spokesman Shea Andersen managed only 64 words of praise. In this case, at least, the Democrat proved more economical/Dan Popkey, Idaho Statesman. More here.

Question: Do you have a reaction to the governor debate in Idaho Falls Thursday?

Working Mother Mag Lauds Crapo

The publisher of Working Mother Magazine has named Idaho GOP Sen. Mike Crapo among 29 members of Congress in its “Best of Congress” list. Working Mother Media calls itself the largest multimedia company in the country focused on diversity and the advancement of women. The magazine reaches 2 million readers. Crapo is one of eight Republicans and 21 Democrats chosen for supporting families and family-friendly work practices. Crapo and other recipients “practice what they preach — employing family-friendly policies in their own offices,” said Working Mother. Of Crapo’s 41 staffers, Working Mother says nine are working moms. Idaho’s other lawmakers were not recognized/Dan Popkey, Idaho Statesman. More here.

Question: Is your workplace family-friendly?

Trillhaase: Jeers To Larry Craig

JEERS … to former U.S. Sen. Larry Craig, R-Idaho. If the disgraced Republican wants to hide in a bunker, fine. But don’t expect the thousands of Idahoans whose trust he betrayed three years ago to elevate him to elder statesman status. Not when he refuses to level with them. Case in point: Craig’s three-hour appearance on a Boise talk radio program Monday. Craig and Idaho Freedom Foundation Executive Director Wayne Hoffman were filling in for KBOI’s conservative host Nate Shelman. Hoffman is a former Idaho Statesman political reporter who also served as former Congressman Bill Sali’s press secretary. Wouldn’t you think at some point they’d get around to discussing how Craig got arrested in a gay sex sting operation at the Minneapolis airport?/Marty Trillhaase, Lewiston Tribune. More here.

Question: If other politicians, past and former, can rehabilitate their images, why can’t Larry Craig? Will he ever be able to do so?

WSU Students Move Back To Campus

At Washington State University, the WSU News Service provides a number of photos from around campus on the college’s Facebook page, including this one of freshmen moving in this week.

Question: Have you ever helped a freshman child move there stuff into a college dorm? Any interesting experiences that you want to share?

HBO Poll: Stimulus Package Failed

  • Thursday Poll: 79 of 135 respondents (58.5%) consider the 2009 federal stimulus package to be a failure. Only 20 of 135 respondents (14.8%) consider it to be a success. 36 of 136 respondents (26.7%) placed the impact “somewhere in the middle.”
  • Today’s Poll: Do you support the construction of a mosque near Ground Zero?

WTC Beams Draw Crowds, Anger

Their latest stop on their journey is Cruiser’s at State Line.“People have been thanking us, everywhere we go, for us bringing it through. Of course all we’re doing is transporting it,” Lee said. But not everyone is happy about what they’re seeing. Cruiser’s owner Sheri Herberholz has received threatening calls and e-mails about the beams being draped by the American flag. So has bucktruck.org, the behind the project. Critics say that draping the American flag over the beams is in violation of flag etiquette. The National Flag Foundation says it should not be used as a covering for a monument, statue, or car. The situation has gotten so bad the owners of Cruiser’s have called the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office to report the harassment and local members of the Patriot Guard are recruiting volunteers to watch over the beams/Tania Dall, KXLY. More here.

Question: Do you have problems with a U.S. flag being used to wrap the World Trade Center beams that are being displayed at 3 Kootenai County locations this weekend?

Murphy: UI Happy Among WAC Dwarfs

Members of the WAC Lite confronted their new realities Thursday morning — the left-behinds taking various approaches to their suddenly depleted conference. Utah State bragged about having the integrity to turn down advances from that dirty Mountain West Conference, which snagged Fresno State and Nevada on Wednesday, leaving the WAC in its current shambles. The Aggies let everyone know they were the first school to be contacted. Louisiana Tech boasted about its lack of ties to any one conference or rival, as if sending a signal to any league with a potential opening. “Louisiana Tech has never been defined by its association with any one or two schools,” athletic director Bruce Van De Velde said. “We have positioned ourselves to be a strong and proud member of any conference.” Hawaii, isolated and left behind again, pondered independence from its conference of more than 30 years, having seen this scene play out too many times. And then there was Idaho — Happy among the remaining WAC dwarfs/Brian Murphy, Idaho Statesman. More here. (Disney illustration: Happy the dwarf)

Question: What should Idaho do now?

AM Headlines — 8.20.10

On Facebook, Kerri Thoreson writes of the two beams from the World Trade Center that are being transported through Kootenai County this weekend: “You wouldn’t think that simple steel beams could evoke such emotion.” Story here. More photos here.

Press: Vote For KTEC Proposal

“The financial crisis is not a good reason to oppose KTEC. It’s the best reason to vote for it. We understand that many Kootenai County residents are suffering from the recession and ridiculous tax increases, and that every purchase and investment has to be scrutinized thoroughly. Along with some needs, most wants are being rejected. We submit that on Aug. 24, the proposal to fund a new Kootenai Technical Education Campus is not a wish; it’s a need that will repay Kootenai County residents and taxpayers many times over”/Mike Patrick, Coeur d’Alene Press. More here.

Question: Wasn’t it just the other day that the Press opinionator was lecturing local governments about not raising taxes at all because we’re in hard times. Why the change of heart on the KTEC proposal?

Palin: It’s ‘Ground Zero Mosque’

Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin (R) called out The Associated Press on Twitter Thursday for its decision to avoid the term “Ground Zero mosque” in its coverage. She also knocked House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) for suggesting Wednesday that the funding for the project’s opponents merits scrutiny. “Pelosi’s investigation of Harry Reid&Howard Dean&others who oppose Ground Zero Mosque will be enlightening, we’re sure,” Palin began, noting a comment made by Pelosi during a radio interview that just as the public should know about the mosque’s backers, so should they know who is funding its opponents. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (Nev.) and former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean are two high-profile Democrats who oppose the mosque in its proposed location/Elise Viebeck, The Hill. More here

  • Cutline: Pedestrians stop to argue with Abu Rahman, right, Matt Sky, second from right, and Julia Lundy, third from right, as they stand in front of the site of a proposed  mosque near  ground  zero in New York on Thursday. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

Question: What do you make of the policy by the Associated Press to avoid the term ‘Ground Zero mosque’ in discussing the controversial proposal?

Outside: Boise Best Town In West

Boise, to put it mildly, has been on a roll. Government, education, and health care remain core industries, but dozens of high-tech startups have moved to town, joining behemoths like Hewlett-Packard and Micron Technology. And while its population has more than doubled in the past 30 years and jaded locals bemoan the sprawl, Boise has managed its growth impressively well: The city is home to nearly 2,000 acres of parks and a 25-mile greenbelt. The outlying areas feel a bit bland, but the older neighborhoods have that Boulder vibe—cruiser bikes, farmers’ markets, and prayer flags—only with reasonably priced homes/Outside. More here.

  • Cutline: Hundreds turned out to witness the rededication celebration for the Idaho  capitol building on Jan. 9 in downtown  Boise. (AP Photo/Idaho Press-Tribune, Charlie Litchfield)

Question: Do you agree with Outside mag that Boise is the best town in the West?

Ramirez: Build It Anywhere?

Michael Ramirez/Investor’s Business Daily

Trentwood Man Jailed For Mooning Cop

A Trentwood man earned himself a one-way ticket to jail after making the grave mistake of mooning a passing driver who happened to be an off-duty Benton County deputy sheriff Saturday evening. Deputies were called shortly before 8 p.m. Saturday after getting reports that Ryan Lee Martineau was at Plantes Ferry Park swearing at people as well as spitting and hitting cars. Martineau left Plantes Ferry Park and was walking to the vicinity of McDonald and Rich when he mooned a passing vehicle driven by an off-duty deputy from Benton County. That deputy kept his eye on Martineau until Spokane County Sheriff deputies caught up with him/Rob Kauder, KXLY. More here. (AP file photo of 30th annual “moon” event in Laguna Niguel, Calif., in July 2009)

Question: Have you ever mooned someone? C’mon, admit it.

Parting Shot: Woolworth’s Menu

At Get Out! North Idaho Facebook page, OrangeTV posts the photo of the old Woolworth’s menu and this note: “Woolworth’s was where Sherman Square Park is now, burned down in the late 1970s/early 1980s.” Woolworth’s, I believe, was gone when I got here in 1982. I applaud Don & Bob Johnston for transforming the vacant lot into Sherman Square Park, where Handshake Productions holds those nifty Tuesday evening concerts during the summer.

Question: Do you remember when you could buy a giant banana split for 39 cents?

MWC Power Grab Wild Card — 8.19.10

I’m headed to Riverstone Park this evening to see the next-to-last freebie concert, sponsored by the Coeur d’Alene Arts & Culture Alliance, featuring bluegrass music by Panhandle Polecats. The entertainment runs from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Food is available, too. If you haven’t seen an outdoor concert at Riverstone, you are missing one of the highlights of summer living in the Lake City. Trust me on this one. Now, for your daily Wild Card …

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.19.10

  • 5:41 p.m. Customer in black Dodge pickup just left Sowers Bookstore on Government Way/Hayden after yelling at other customers and employees.
  • 5:13 p.m. 2 males and a female were fighting @ 8200 Meadow Brook Circle/Rathdrum. After one male left, the female began hitting the other one.
  • 4:52 p.m. Prisoner in patrol vehicle is trying to kick the cage out behind officer, who is n/b on H95 @ Cougar Gulch.
  • 4:49 p.m. 2 males are punching each other in 3600 block of Camrose/Rathdrum, in fight over cat. One is bleeding from cut on the head.
  • 4:37 p.m. Female on Ponderosa/Post Falls who was arrested for drunkenness last night has returned to trash home and threaten suicide.
  • 3:58 p.m. Hitchhiker is in middle of I-90 onramp @ M/P 7 (H41) trying to slow traffic.

PM: Vandals Steal Idaho Vandals Gear

Democratic candidate for governor  Keith  Allred shakes hands with incumbent Idaho Gov.  Butch  Otter  after their debate at The City Club of Idaho Falls luncheon Thursday afternoon in Idaho Falls, Idaho. David Adler, left, of Idaho State University moderated the debate before a capacity audience. Associated Press story here. (AP Photo/The Idaho Post-Register, Robert Bower)

APhoto Of The Day — 8.19.10

Hillary, a  Border  Collie, herds several ducks dressed for the occasion during a demonstration inside the new Purina Event Center in Gray Summit, Mo. You write the cutline. (AP Photo/St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Elie Gardner)

Top Cutline:

  • 1. Met at the door by a bouncer, (pictured at top) six guests were turned away after finding it was a black tie event — Herb Huseland.
  • 2. Hillary makes sure that she has her tux in a row, while her herd prepares to get ‘down’ at the show — JohnA.
  • 3. If Hillary thinks “duck herding” is easy, wait till she tries cat herding — Charlie.
  • HM: Kage Mann

Nick: Hoffman Lets Craig Off Hook

Reminder: Idaho Freedom Foundation transparency workshop begins at 6 at CdA Library

Nick Adams: Wayne Hoffman spent three hours on the air with former Senator Larry “wide stance” Craig earlier this week and didn’t allow one question about why Craig is now a former Senator. Also, not one comment on two of the biggest breaking news stories of the day: 1) The 9th Circuit Court’s ruling on gay marriage in CA and 2) the Idaho Lt. Col.’s case against the military for “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell.” Hoffman would give Dr. Harold Hill a run for his money. Transparency, indeed.

Question: Should Larry Craig be allowed to limit the kinds of questions he can be asked in public forums here in Idaho?

ICB: Is Minnick A Gimmick?

minnick4.jpgSo I ask, Is Minnick a gimmick?  And, what does that mean? What would Minnick’s gimmick be? Is it that Minnick being labeled a “Blue Dog” is the gimmick? Is it that Minnick is a Conservative Democrat? Is it that Minnick is a Liberal in Blue Dog clothing? Is it that Minnick is a Liberal pretending to be a Conservative Democrat? To be honest, I don’t know, mostly because Walt Minnick is hard to figure out.  He seems to jump from one camp to another with inconsistent votes.   Some say when Pelosi needs his vote he’s with her, when she gives him a pass he votes with Republicans in effort to keep his seat.  ICB is not so sure.  Call me naive but that seems a bit of a stretch, but I could be wrong/Idaho Conservative Blogger. More here

Question: How would you describe Congressman Walt Minnick?

$1.5M For Corridor, $500K For McEuen

LCDC exec Tony Berns tells Hucks Online that the $2M budgeted for next year by the agency for the Education Corridor ($1.5M) and McEuen Field upgrade ($500,000) is a guesstimate. The values “may be amended once the planning efforts for both initiatives are completed later this calendar year.” Also, he said, LCDC may look to borrow funds “to partner on both initiatives,” If the two planning efforts come in with big price tags. Bottom line, he said, “it is still too early to know how much the two projects will cost to complete, and thus too early for LCDC to clearly define its financial partnership role in each.” (No Coeur d’Alene Press reporters were fired in the making of this post.)

Question: Do you support LCDC’s financial involvement in McEuen Field/Education Corridor upgrades?

Storm Unhappy w/Shock Vuvuzelas

From In the Huddle with JD: “With the game being played in Spokane, the Shock are trying to do whatever they can to increase their home field advantage by selling vuvuzelas. For those not in the know, vuvuzelas are obnoxious horns that are all the rage in South Africa at soccer matches. The horns made the soccer events almost unwatchable. Distributing the horns is tip toeing on a gray area in the rules. The AFL does not allow mechanical noise makers. There is debate whether or not the vuvuzelas fall in that category/Jason Dixon, Tampa Bay Storm Arena Football League Web official Web site). More here. (AP file photo of World Cup vuvuzela, for illustrative purposes)

Question: Should vuvuzelas be allowed at the Arena Football League championship in Spokane Friday afternoon?

Twitter: Idaho Committed To WAC

In a press conference now under way in Moscow, Idaho AD Rob Speer sez: “Idaho’s AD: Idaho disappointed in Fresno St.’s, Nevada’s move… but committed to WAC”/KHQ

Last U.S. Combat Troops Leave Iraq

U.S. Army Capt. Mark Fisher, left, leans down to kiss his daughter Madeline, 2, as he sits to have lunch with her after arriving at nearby Joint Base Lewis-McChord Wednesday evening in DuPont, Wash. Fisher had just returned from a nearly one-year tour in  Iraq, his second there. Seven years and five months after the U.S.-led invasion, the last American combat brigade was leaving  Iraq, well ahead of President Barack Obama’s Aug. 31 deadline for ending U.S. combat operations there. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

Question: Mission Accomplished?

Wanted: Conservation Advocate

At least one organization is hiring in North Idaho — the Kootenai Environmental Alliance. On the KEA Facebook page, I just spotted this help-wanted ad, posted by Terry Harris: “We are seeking an energetic and motivated Conservation Advocate to help direct and implement the organization’s conservation programs and outreach efforts in North Idaho.” Sounds like an interesting job. But I already have a job. Besides, Terry’d probably frown if he knew that I tossed an empty Mountain Dew can in the trash Wednesday.

Question: Do you consider yourself a “conservation advocate”?

GOP Rips Minnick For MoveOn.org Ties

Item: GOP slams Minnick for embracing MoveOn.org reforms/Kevin Richert, Idaho Statesman

More Info: The flap goes back to a Aug. 10 meeting in Coeur d’Alene, and the 1st Congressional District lawmaker wasn’t even there. A staffer, Sarah Worley, met with a half dozen of Minnick’s constituents, members of MoveOn.org. The activists wanted Minnick to pledge to three reforms: a constitutional amendment that would bar corporations from donating to campaigns; a bill encouraging campaigns to accept public financing; and legislation designed to limit the influence of corporate lobbyists. Worley indicated support on Minnick’s behalf

Question: Are Idaho Republicans succeeding in their never-ending attempt to pin House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Congressman Walt Minnick?

LCDC Budgets $2M For McEuen, Corridor

Overall, the urban renewal agency is anticipating a $5.4 million budget, with roughly $2 million of its expected expenditures geared to go to capital enhancements for a possible reconstruction project of McEuen Field and improvements to portions of the education corridor near the North Idaho College campus/Tom Hasslinger, Coeur d’Alene Press. More here.

Question: Is $2M enough money to overhaul McEuen Field and begin improving Education Corridor?

Why No Wise-Cracks From McCrory?

Strangely, Bill McCrory, who is quick to point the finger at others from his keyboard commando spot in the OpenCDA.com swamp, has yet to mutter a word re: his appearance in Judge Charles Hosack’s 1st District Courtroom (re: a contempt of court allegation) on Wednesday. In fact, nothing has been written out front at OpenSewer.com in the last two days (although I haven’t taken time to read the comments). Has the cat got McCrory’s tongue? Or is he being a little more cautious after donning suit-and-tie to face the possible legal music (at a trial scheduled for mid-September) ? Inquiring minds want to know.

INW Headlines — 8.19.10

KOP Construction worker David Way frames in a window Tuesday as part of the historical reconstruction of the Cliff House at Arbor Crest. Mike Prager’s SR story here. (SR photo: Colin Mulvany)

Allred, Otter Mix It Up @ Debate

Wow. In a very lively, issue-oriented debate in Idaho Falls, Gov. Butch Otter and challenger Keith Allred departed from the set format just now, with Otter using his final rebuttal to a question about the Republican Party platform to ask Allred about his view of planks of the Democratic Party platform. Though it wasn’t his turn to speak, Allred responded, and moderator David Adler said he’d allow that through “moderator’s prerogative.” Allred responded, “The governor did ask me a question,” to which Otter put in, “But that doesn’t mean under the rules you get to reply.” Responded Allred: “It’s good to do this with a career politician who knows all the tricks.” Otter then declared, “This is the first college professor I ever ran against,” prompting Adler to make a crack about losing control of his class/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise.

High Noon: Cemetery Tour Sunday

In this 2007 SR file photo by Kathy Plonka, Vietnam veteran Dusty Rhoads of the Coeur d’Alene chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America power washes the headstones of veterans from the Civil War, Spanish-American War and WWI at Forest Cemetery in Coeur d’Alene. Beginning at 10 a.m. Sunday, the city library and parks department will lead a guided tour of the history cemetery. The cemetery at 1011 Government Way was originally owned by the U.S. Army from 1878 to 1901, for use by Fort Sherman troops. More here.

Question: Do you consider cemeteries as a place of peace and reflection — or scary?

DFO: Write-In Against Hart OK, But …

I’m delighted that Hayden businessman Howard Griffiths has filed as a write-in candidate to challenge state Rep. Phil Hart, R-Athol, in the fall general election. Hart may have been given a 4-3 (along partisan lines) pass re: his tax problems by the so-called ethics committee hand-picked by House Speaker Lawerence Denney. But he needs someone to hold his feet to raise questions re: his actions. Republicans may want to look the other way. And some may consider Hart to be some sort of hero for resisting income tax payments that now has him about $700,000 in arrears to the IRS & Idaho Tax Commission. But a lot of North Idahoans are repulsed that he can continue to dodge tax payments while he sits on the House Revenue & Tax Commission that affects the taxes that affect the rest of us. I only wish Griffiths would have filed as a Democrat or Independent so he would have had a better shot at upsetting Hart.

Question: What value is there in having a write-in candidate face state Rep. Phil Hart?

HBO Poll: Enuf Of Boise State

  • Wednesday Poll: A plurality of 38 of 100 respondents (38%) said the Western Athletic Conference shouldn’t take Boise State back even if the Broncos wanted to come back (after initial reports Wednesday that Brigham Young was leaving Mountain West Conference. Much, of course, has changed since then.) 36 of 100 (36%) said Boise State shouldn’t return to WAC. Only 26 of 100 (26%) said they’d like to see Boise State back in the WAC.
  • Today’s Poll: How would you characterize the 2009 federal stimulus package?

Field Burning Back, Greatly Reduced

Item: Field burning is back, greatly reduced/Mike Prager, SR

More Info: A dramatically reduced level of field burning got started on the Rathdrum Prairie in North Idaho on Wednesday but was shut down when the smoke failed to rise above ground level, Idaho officials said today. At least 50 acres of bluegrass were burned before officials ordered the fires extinguished, said Ralph Paul, air shed coordinator for the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality in Coeur d’Alene.

Question: Do you even notice that the grass farmers were burning their fields this year?

OTV: Zip’s Criss Cut Fries Crisis

Is there anything in the world more traumatizing than when a restaurant stops serving one of your favorite items? Probably, but it still really bites. Apparently, Zips Drive-In on Sherman Ave. in Cd’A has mercilessly killed off one of their trademark items, something they’ve been serving since the dawn of time, something beloved by thousands of local residents both young and old: Criss Cut Fries. I haven’t been witness to the horror of this travesty myself, but a friend of mine told me last night that he had just been to Zips with the intention of ordering the same thing he’s ordered for decades: two Papa Joes and a tub of Criss Cuts. The counters girl’s reply was as cold and dry as an arctic tundra or Sarah Palin’s ****: “Sorry, they’ve been discontinued”/OrangeTV, Get Out! North Idaho. (Photo courtesy of Get Out! North Idaho Facebook page) More here

Question: On his Get Out! North Idaho Facebook page, OrangeTV states that it’s “time for revolution!” re: end of Criss Cut Fries at Zip’s. What do you think?

Uncle Seeks Help In Dirt Bike Theft

First, you need to know that 4YO Gunnar Moffett, of Coeur d’Alene, is already quite an outdoorsman. He snorkles. He shoots arrows with a bow. He rides a small dirt bike that his father bought him for a gift 6 months ago. Mebbe I should say he used to ride the 30-inch dirt bike. Today, Gunnar’s 4th birthday, some creep stole the dirt bike from his Uncle Travis Loper’s car while it was parked at Edgewood Circle, behind Borders. Now, Uncle Travis is kicking himself for not locking the car doors and mustering the courage to tell his nephew about the missing bike. Travis has filed a police report. This morning, Travis visited Hucks HQ to ask for help in finding the $1500 dirt bike. He described it as a red-and-white, Honda CRF 50. Travis is asking that Hucks Online readers contact the police if you see someone riding or trying to sell a small dirt bike matching the description above.

Blount Throws Another Punch

LeGarrette Blount, shown here in this AP file photo scoring a touchdown for the Tennessee Titans, against Seattle in an exhibition game Saturday in Seattle, punched a teammate during practice Wednesday. The rookie running back capped off a feisty night practice with a short punch to the helmet of defensive end Eric Bakhtiari a few moments after having his own helmet ripped off for the second time in as many plays. As you recall, Blount was kicked off the Oregon Ducks team for several games last year when he punched Boise State’s Byron Hout, a former Lake City High star, after the Broncos beat Oregon in the season opener for both teams. AP story here.

Question: Do hot heads ever grow up?

Inquiring Minds Want To Know …

… Is this the story that got long-time business writer Rick Thomas booted from the Coeur d’Alene Press here? Reaction from Coeur d’Alene Brewing Is Moving Facebook page here.

IFF Offers CdA Transparency Workshop

Wayne Hoffman, of Idaho Freedom Foundation, sent Hux Online this notice of a transparency workshop that’ll be held in Coeur d’Alene next Thursday: “IFF is looking for people looking to play lead roles as government watchdogs in their communities and are willing to ask tough questions of elected officials.  If you’re the type of person who wants to know how your tax dollars are spent or just have a lot of questions about how your cities, counties, schools and highway districts operate, the Idaho Freedom Foundation will help with a free workshop on government transparency 6 o’clock tonight in the Coeur d’Alene Public Library’s Gozzer Room.”  The Coeur d’Alene Press now has full news release published at its online edition here. (Originally posted on last Friday, Aug. 13)

Question: Do you plan to attend the transparency workshop?

Analyst: Stimulus Hasn’t Helped Idaho

A new analysis tracking the 2009 federal stimulus package shows that both in Idaho and across the country, job losses have outpaced jobs created by the spending program.  Economists in the Obama administration say more jobs have been created. A report from the Mercatus Center, a research wing of George Mason University that focuses on markets and economics, says Idaho’s workforce dropped by 14,600 employees since February 2009, while the federal stimulus has reportedly saved 8,383 jobs.  Nationally, 2.62 million Americans have lost their jobs since the stimulus package was approved by Congress, and 755,454 job have been created/Brad Iverson-Long, Idaho Reporter. More here.

Question: How would you characterize the 2009 federal stimulus package — success, failure, or somewhere in between?

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.19.10

9:07 a.m. Sherry @ Cruisers reports the tavern is getting harassing phone calls as a result of a scheduled stop today of a truck hauling 2 steel beams from the World Trade Center. Seems some people are irate locally that an American flag is wrapped around the beams. (Read Coeur d’Alene Press story of controversy here.)

  • 11:28 a.m. Caller reports that a female in a 2005 silver Mazda pickup w/Montana plates motioned to him that guy in the following white Honda is stalking her on East Seltice Way.
  • 11:07 a.m. Someone in 6900 block of Majestic/Rathdrum has suffered finger trauma.
  • 10:54 a.m. A crash b/n logging truck & Ford Explorer is blocking H95 & Prairie.
  • 10:32 a.m. Resident in Medimont area reports she was bitten by a neighbor’s cat.
  • 9:31 a.m. A fire in a bark bed at Julia Falls Apartments has been extinguished.
  • 9:02 a.m. A male is unconscious at Whitetail campground @ Farragut State Park.
  • 8:53 a.m. Kim, in 400 block of E. Iowa/Hayden, reports someone just pured red paint all over her vehicle.
  • 8:25 a.m. A campfire is smoldering & unattended @ Seltice Way & Atlas/CdA.
  • 8:26 a.m. Landlord reports someone has cut locks on rental in 6100 block of Mallory/Rathdrum.
  • 8:06 a.m. Albert reports a vicious dog running loose on Davenport/Dalton Gardens.

AM Headlines — 8.19.10

A Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer poses for a photo, as bears  walk towards him, near a marijuana crop in Christina Lake, British Columbia, recently. Police uncovered two separate outdoor marijuana crops of about 2,300 plants near Christina Lake, just a few miles from the  Canada-U.S. border. When officers arrived in the area two weeks ago, they found 13 black  bears wandering around the crops and then discovered the  bears had been fed dog food. (AP Photo/RCMP via The Canadian Press)

Quotable Quote

“The (Mountain West Conference) is like a psycho ex girlfriend. BYU wants to leave and now the conference is claiming she’s pregnant” — Patrick Funk via Twitter

Judge: English Followed Procedure

Item: Judge dismisses Jorgenson’s suit against clerk English: Luster rules official was following correct procedure/Tom Hasslinger, Coeur d’Alene Press

More Info: First District Judge John Luster said that English didn’t break protocol by classifying former Montana representative and Jorgenson’s District 3 primary opponent Steve Vick as a registered Kootenai County voter leading up to the May primary election. Whether Vick was eligible to run for the Senate seat could be another question for the Secretary of State’s Office, Luster said, but English acted properly upholding Vick’s Kootenai County voter registration.

Question: I’m not surprised by this ruling. Are you?

Mountain West Hijacks 2 WAC Teams

Another tumultuous day on the college athletics landscape left the Mountain West Conference with two new teams, the Western Athletic Conference in peril and BYU’s future in limbo. Fresno State and Nevada accepted invitations Wednesday to join Boise State in the Mountain West. Boise State moves in the summer of 2011, but it’s still unclear whether Nevada and Fresno State will take that step in 2011 or 2012. The schools missed the July 1 deadline to leave the WAC for 2011-12, but there is room for negotiation. … The departures will leave the WAC with six members and could block BYU’s reported intention to leave the Mountain West to play football as an independent and in the WAC in all other sports/Chadd Cripe, Idaho Statesman. More here.

Question: What should the Idaho Vandals do now?

LMT: What Did Butch Know? When?

From Otter’s description of the project, however, you wouldn’t know what happens once the equipment is shipped to Lewiston. You wouldn’t know that ConocoPhillips plans to move four massive truckloads up U.S. Highway 12, a project now on hold as a judge reviews a lawsuit blocking it. You wouldn’t know Imperial Oil plans to run more than 200 trucks, each as long as 210 feet, as wide as 24 feet, as tall as 30 feet and as heavy as 290 tons along the two-lane highway toward Missoula. But those shipments are at the heart of the controversy. Residents and business owners on the scenic highway say it undermines their personal safety, economy and the environment. Otter’s letter doesn’t mention the shipments - nor, of course, his own plan to impose a $10 million bond on both ConocoPhillips and Imperial Oil/Marty Trillhaase, Lewiston Tribune. More here.

Question: Did Butch Otter ignore the transportation impact of the economic project he enthusiastic supported for the Port of Lewiston?

Anderson: Good & Bad

Nick Anderson/Houston Chronicle

All Hell Breaks Loose In WAC, MWC

All hell is broking loose today as the Mountain West and WAC conferences are fighting over teams in an attempt to survive. Brian Murphy/Idaho Statesman (pictured), who has been following the situation all day, just posted quotes from UI Vandal Coach Robb Akey re: possibility of WAC losing Fresno State and Nevada: “As a coach, it’s something I obviously pay a lot of attention to. I’m anxious to see how everything is going to play itself out because there can be a pretty strong impact on our future depending on the ways the thing might go. At the same time, I’m not going to get to have a voice in it. You hear so many different things and we even get a little bit of inside information and that stuff doesn’t always match up, either.” … “Selfishly, I just want to see the WAC come out of it in the strongest fashion. That’s what I’m pulling for.” Folo Murphy’s updates here

Question: What do you make of this struggle to the death between Mountain West and Western Athletic conferences?

 

Parting Shot — 8.18.10

On the Lewiston Tribune Facebook site, Publisher Nathan Alford is shown holding up a photo of his grandfather, Bud Alford, which bears the newspaper’s famous quote: “Our opinions are not for sale.” I worked for two years for Nathan’s father, Butch, as a news editor at the Trib. I can guarantee you that old Bud’s comment was accurate. Ladd Hamilton, Bill Hall, and later Jim Fisher wrote hard-hitting editorials and didn’t kowtow to anyone. Glad to see the new Alford at the helm of the Very Good Ship U.S.S. Tribune is following in the same footsteps.

Hump Day Wild Card — 8.18.10

I refer to the mid-week Wild Card as the Hump Day Wild Card b/c Wednesday is the day that we get over the hump as far as the week’s concerned. We’ve broken the big rocks into little ones Monday and Tuesday — and now we’re halfway home to the weekend and relaxing fund days in our viewtiful portion of the Inland Northwest. You can use this Wild Card to celebrate this fact. Or to start a thread, per usual …

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.18.10

  • 5:17 p.m. 3 males have followed through on the threat to beat up a woman’s husband (see 4:14 entry) on Pinegrove Court.
  • 4:57 p.m. A female is stalled in a Blazer on I-90 @ MP 5 (Spokane Street/Post Falls).
  • 4:54 p.m. A person living in a guest house on Harbor Drive/Spokane River is shooting a handgun off the property’s boat dock.
  • 4:43 p.m. Sounds like there’s been some sort of minor crash involving Lola Hagadone, 69, of Casco Bay.
  • 4:26 p.m. Gold pickup towing a rowboat is stuck in the median of I-90 @ M/P 33 (near H3) after it failed to stop for inspection station and tried to turn around.
  • 4:14 p.m. Female tells police that a roommate is threatening to beat up her husband after the landlord kicked roommate out, @ Pinegrove Court.

PM: Woman Charged In Relay Crash

Of this gorgeous Idaho Scenic Images posting from her trip to the top of Beartooth Pass, Wyo., photographer Linda Lantzy writes: “As the morning sun was burning through … These little alpine ponds were everywhere. I must have stopped at 4 or 5 of them and sloshed through the marshlands.” More here.

APhoto Of The Day — 8.18.10

Sixteen-month-old  Kiara Robertson drinks from one of the fountains at the Columbian Park Zoo Tuesday in Lafayette, Ind. You write the cutline. (AP Photo/Journal & Courier, Michael Heinz)

Top Cutlines:

  • 1. (tie) In the shadow of the bear, Kiara earns the nickname ‘Ursa Minor’, further appropriate because she is a ‘little dipper’ — JohnA; and: Stay away from my fishin’ hole, bear or I’ll turn your mother to stone, too — Kevin Taylor.
  • 2. Little girl to bear: “So….how long do I have to stand here like this before I catch a fish like yours?” — Shannon.
  • 3. Kiara was heard to opine, “This doesn’t taste like salmon” — Charlie.
  • HM: KeithinCDA

Hayden Man To Challenge Phil Hart

A Hayden, Idaho businessman has filed to run as a write-in candidate against Idaho Rep. Phil Hart, saying Hart’s tax woes prompted him to jump into the race against a fellow conservative. “We all pay our taxes, and my feeling is what he did was wrong,” Howard Griffiths said of Hart. “There’s no justification for it. If we all took that attitude, and the way Washington’s printing money, this country wouldn’t last three minutes if none of us paid our taxes.” Hart is the target of an ethics investigation in the Idaho House; in late July, a special House Ethics Committee cleared him, on a 4-3 party-line vote, of conflict-of-interest charges for voting on and sponsoring tax legislation while he was waging his own fight against back state and federal income taxes. He still faces a pending charge of abuse of legislative privilege/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: Are you glad to see that Rep. Phil Hart isn’t running entirely unopposed?

Hucks To Give Out Free Fair Tickets

I have 50 tickets to give away next week for the first day of the North Idaho Fair. So I asked Facebook friends to suggest types of contests that I can stage here to give away tickets. Here’s KevinT’s recommendations:

  • Speed ballot counting
  • Power whizzing behind a downtown bar
  • Cindy Hval facebook poking
  • Endurance contest: Who can read a Phaedrus-HMOffsuite exchange longest w/o whiplash
  • Adverb rolling against KageMann.
  • Check out other suggestion on my Facebook page here

Question: Any others?

North Idaho Blogosphere — 8.18.10

On the ilovecda.com blog, Blogmistress labels this photo: “Ladies room view at pub on 5th — downtown Coeur d’Alene.” She writes on her blog that the photo was taken on the same night that she made this post here.

HBO Numbers (for Monday, Aug. 16) 9060/5679; and (for Tuesday, Aug. 17) 9244/5629

Because You Asked …

Not to make light of the situation in St. Maries and Benewah County … but some of you Berry Pickers (I’m not going to name names, Cindy) were clamoring for a calendar featuring the men of the Coeur d’Alene Tribal Police. And, voila, Hucks Online landed this photo of tribal officer Sam Abrahamson, looking fit in uniform, via tribe spokesman Marc Stewart. Enjoy.

Question: Do you think officers from the St. Maries Police Department or Benewah County Sheriff’s Department look as good and professional in their unies as Sam does?

Christie: St. Maries Stand Disappoints

RE: St. Maries rejects Coeur d’Alene Tribe offer of police help/Dan Hammes, St. Maries Gazette-Record

Sgt. Christie Wood, Coeur d’Alene police spokesman and Kootenai County Task Force on Human Relations member: “This is so disappointing and sure to be a discussion topic at our next KCTFHR meeting. It is a issue that need not be. But it appears that years of hatred toward the tribe has fueled this. No doubt the Mayor faced incredible poticial pressure. I am sorry for her that she was put in this position, but the citizens are the losers here. It does appear that she is open to future discussion with all parties involved so good for her. My experience is that when a person needs the help of law enforcement they are very grateful to see an officer arrive. They do not care what agency they represent. I guess it is different in Benewah. However if the Sheriff’s Department and local government would put aside their differences, and embrace the help of the tribal officers the citizens would begin to feel comfortable with them assisting.

Reaction?

2nd Post Falls WalMart Opens

In case you missed the ribbon cutting at the second Post Falls WalMart, the Post Falls Chamber of Commerce Facebook photographer was on hand to show you Mayor Clay Larkin handling the grand-opening, scissor duties.

TFTN: Making Middle Schools Matter

Rob Sauer didn’t invent the concept of middle school accountability, but he’s sure put the notion on the front burner in Idaho education. Starting this school year, the Middle Level Credit System — a product of the Idaho State Board of Education’s Middle Level Task Force — will require seventh- and eighth-grade students to complete at least 80 percent of the class credits they take to move to the next grade. Students won’t be able to advance a grade if they fail a full year in one subject, such as math. Those who don’t meet requirements or who are in danger of failing will receive credit-recovery opportunities to help them become eligible to advance to the next grade/Twin Falls Times-News Editorial Board. More here.

Question: Do you agree with the change in Idaho education that will, for the first time, require Middle School students to complete a certain amount of credits to move on?

$250K Lottery Ticket Sold In Rathdrum

The Idaho Lottery has confirmed that a Mega Millions ticket worth $250,000 was sold for last night’s draw in Rathdrum, Idaho.  The winning numbers for last night’s $86 million draw were 11, 19, 40, 43, 44 and the Megaball was 33. This winning ticket matched the first five “white ball” numbers, but not the Megaball. … This is the second $250,000 winning Mega Millions ticket in Idaho, both of which were sold in the greater Coeur d’Alene area. The previous $250,000 winner was sold in Coeur d’Alene for the April 17, 2010 draw. That winning ticket has not yet been claimed/David Workman, Idaho Lottery. More here.

Question: What’s the most you’ve ever won in a lottery?

SR: Vote Yes On KTEC Levy

Across Idaho, thousands of young men and women will set off next month to launch their four-year college careers. But for every one of them, six or seven of their contemporaries will be seeking their way into the work force along different, uncertain and often less rewarding paths. That could be a two-year college, a military enlistment, an apprenticeship program. For many, though, the conventional institutions of learning are done with them, even though they remain unprepared for the future. Meanwhile, certain businesses clamor for employees with skills that won’t be found in a baccalaureate program – welders, auto mechanics, construction and health care workers. Shortages in such fields restrict local economies and limit the ability of a community’s sons and daughters to build a future close to home/Spokesman-Review Editorial Board. More here.

Question: Persuaded now?

INW Headlines — 8.18.10

These undated photos show Arizona prison inmate John McCluskey. The search for McCluskey and Casslyn Welch, who helped him and two murder suspects escape, is still focused on western  Montana and the northwestern U.S. and Canada. The last credible sighting of Casslyn Welch and John McCluskey was on Aug. 6 in Billings, Mont. The couple are likely still traveling in a gold, tan or gray 1997 Nissan Sentra. Story here. (AP Photo/U.S. Marshals Service)

High Noon: Summer’s Music Man

Chris Guggemos, the mastermind behind Handshake Productions, which provides free musical entertainment at 4 different Kootenai County venues through the summer, is shown on CdANightOut’s Facebook page at a Tuesday concert in Sherman Park Square (4th & Sherman). Guggemos, Stickman, & Walkabout are among the local residents who add so much to our lives in viewtiful Coeur d’Alene by providing music, sticks, & picking up trash on Tubbs Hill.

Question: Do you know someone who would fall into the same category as the three mentioned above, who add to the life of this community in an unusual, unsung way?

Minnick Leads Labrador By 23.3%

The poll shows Democratic Congressman Walt Minnick leading GOP challenger Raul Labrador by 23.3 points, with Minnick at 52.1 percent and Labrador at 28.8 percent; while 1.9 percent chose “other” and 17.2 percent were undecided. That’s more than twice the Minnick lead shown in Labrador’s own poll, which he released a month ago showing Minnick with a 10-point lead. The poll had a statewide sample of 400 people, and just 200 of those were in the 1st Congressional District, so that means the margin of error for that result is well above the plus or minus 4.9 percent for the poll as a whole. But it’s still pretty interesting/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: Why hasn’t Repub Raul Labrado seemingly been unable to gain traction against Congressman Walt Minnick, despite his big upset win over Vaughn Ward in the spring primary?

HBO Poll: Don’t Allow Huge Shipments

  • Tuesday Poll: 69 of 122 (57%) respondents said Gov. Butch Otter erred by allowing PhillipsConoco to move huge loads of refinery equipment on state Highway 12, through sensitive Clearwater/Lochsa river canyon. 50 of 122 (41%) agreed with Otter’s decision. 3 of 122 (2%) were undecided.
  • Hydroplane Exhibit: 58 of 104 (56%) respondents said they don’t plan to watch the hydroplane exhibit on Lake Coeur d’Alene this weekend that’s designed to raise money for the North Idaho Museum. 53 of 104 (43%) said they will. 3 of 104 (3%) were undecided.
  • Today’s Poll: Should Boise State football rejoin Western Athletic Conference?

Checking Out New Post Falls WalMart

From Facebook, Frum Helen Back observes: “My life must be boring cause I’m so excited about going to the new WalMart today. And I’m going to buy new cleaning brushes for my clean, cheap bucket. I was so anxious about the new WalMart that I went to the grand opening yesterday too. You can only imagine how disappointed I was that it was the wrong day.”

Question: Are you excited that a new WalMart opened today in Post Falls and another one will open soon in Hayden?

National Lentil Festival In Pullman

Noble legume,
small and classy,
full of protein,
although gassy;
a boon for farms
from Sprague to Lind -
if I attend
I’ll stay upwind.

The Bard of Sherman Avenue

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.18.10

  • 11:59 a.m. Tesoro/East Sherman Avenue reports unconscious person @ gas station.
  • 11:47 a.m. Female in red vehicle claims juveniles in green vehicle are following her @ Lancaster & Atlas.
  • 11:19 a.m. Crash b/n red Chevy Suburban & Chevy pickup is blocking Canfield, east of H95/CdA.
  • 11:16 a.m. Department of Motor Vehicles reports a wanted person in office.
  • 10:57 a.m. Officer is stopping at Rathdrum Super 1 to check on female selling puppies.
  • 10:52 a.m. Caller reports that male in Dodge pickup w/sofa under canopy in back is tailgating him. He’s willing to sign a complaint.
  • 10:40 a.m. Patrol officer reports possible vehicle fire involving “‘70s model muscle car” on Seltice Way & Cedar/Post Falls.
  • 10:39 a.m. Mother reports 14YO son grabbed her during an argument, in 1900 block of N. 5th/CdA.
  • 10:36 a.m. Caller reports finding unknown property on Centennial Trail, near Corbin Park/Post Falls.
  • 9:48 a.m. Caller reports 3 or 4 homeless men are drinking outside her apartment on Front/CdA.
  • 8:52 a.m. North Idaho College worker reports that a dog on a leash is barking its “fool head off” near Fortground Tavern/CdA.

‘Apprentice’ Runnerup Joins Team Otter

Troy McClain has avoided politics since capturing the hearts of 28 million Americans as the runner-up on Donald Trump’s first season of “The Apprentice” in 2004. The Boise entrepreneur had a simple request for politicians “don’t mess with my huntin,’ don’t mess with my fishin,” the self-described “country boy with big city instincts” said. But now the founder and President of the McClain Companies has jumped in to help Idaho Gov. Butch Otter. McClain, a public speaker, consultant and sometimes television host, decided to bring his wide media skills and experience to Otter’s campaign. “I said, ‘Butch, you’re the right person, we need to get the right message behind you,’” McClain said/Rocky Barker, Idaho Statesman. More here.

  • AP 2004 file photo/NBC:Troy  McClain, left, and Kwame Jackson pose at the post-telecast party after the finale of NBC’s television boardroom game “The Apprentice,” in New York.

Question: Is a guy who finished second on Donald Trump’s ‘The Apprentice’ a good addition to Gov. Butch Otter’s campaign?

Almost North Idaho Fair Time

On Facebook, Berry Picker Shannon posted a coupla photos that she entered in the North Idaho Fair competition this year, including the one above. You can check out the North Idaho Fair & Rodeo Facebook site here.

Question: Do you have anything entered in the fair?

Bill McCrory Contempt Charge On Hold

Item: Contempt charge on hold: Judge wants to wait until election challenge is decided/Tom Hasslinger, Coeur d’Alene Press

More Info: McCrory pleaded not guilty to the contempt charges on Tuesday. That trial has been scheduled for 9 a.m. Friday, Sept. 17, a day after the election suit is scheduled to wrap up. If he’s found guilty on the two accusations, he could face up to $10,000 in civil fines.

Reaction?

Otter’s Lead Slips To 11 Percent

Item: Otter’s lead over Allred shrinks in new independent poll/Dan Popkey, Idaho Statesman

More Info: Idaho GOP Gov. Butch Otter’s lead over Democrat Keith Allred has slipped to 11 percentage points, according to a poll commissioned by the Idaho Hospital Association by Republican pollster Greg Strimple. Otter led 47 percent to 36 percent, the first time his support has dropped below 50 percent in polls that have become public.

Question: Is there a huge upset in the making?

St. Maries Rejects Tribe’s Offer

The matter is closed. That is the decision by Mayor Tami Holdahl relating to an offer by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe to the city of St. Maries to assist with law enforcement when needed. “After review of the contract between the Coeur d’Alene Tribe and the city of Plummer and the county of Kootenai, I am tabling any further discussion regarding the “mutual aid” and “cross deputization” agreements. The city is willing to meet and work with Benewah County and the Coeur d’Alene Tribe to come to an agreement that will be beneficial for all parties,” Mayor Holdahl wrote in a memo last week. Keith Hutcheson, chief of the tribal police department, met with the city council last month and offered the help, at no cost to the city. The offer was consistent with a previous agreement the tribe had with the city/Dan Hammes, St. Maries Gazette-Record. More here.

Question: Are you surprised that St. Maries backed away from the free police help offered by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe?

Patrick: Don’t Enjoy Bad News Of Rich

After lecturing readers that it isn’t nice for little people to relish the financial calamities of the big people, like Marshall Chesrown (who recently turned over his Black Road interests to the bank, Editor Mike Patrick of the Coeur d’Alene Press goes on to opine: “If you were one of those who cheered at the front-page news, publicly or privately, we beg you to reconsider. Had the operation closed, about 150 jobs would instantly have been lost. Ask Steve Griffitts, the region’s economic development boss, what he’d give for 150 jobs today and you’d probably see Steve looking wistfully at his right arm. The Club at Black Rock isn’t just a slice of paradise for wealthy golf aficionados. It’s an important piece in North Idaho’s overall employment puzzle.” More here. (SR photo: Jesse Tinsley, Black Rock development)

Question: Did you enjoy hearing the news that Marshall Chesrown was struggling financially so much that he had to turn his Black Rock holdings over to the bank?

AM: Pulaski’s Legacy Lives On

Carl Ritchie, retired U.S. Forest Service archaeologist, stands in front of the famous Pulaski Tunnel near Wallace. Ritchie explored the area of the West Fork of Placer Creek to find the mining tunnel, named for the Forest Service ranger who saved his men during the great Fire of 1910. Becky Kramer story here. And: Jim Kershner story here. (AP Photo/The Spokesman-Review, Christopher Anderson)

Question: Do you own a Pulaski digging tool?

Report: BYU Leaving Mountain West

Item: Reports: BYU leaving Mountain West/Brian Murphy, Idaho Statesman

More Info: Boise State’s new conference is about to get rocked by a second defection this summer, according to the Colorado State athletic department. Colorado State posted on Twitter late Tuesday that fellow Mountain West Conference member BYU will go independent in football and join the Western Athletic Conference in all other sports. A press conference is scheduled for Thursday, according to the post by @CSUFootball - the official Colorado State football Twitter account. The Mountain West, which added Boise State for 2011 in June, already has lost Utah to the Pac-10.

Question: What should Boise State do, if BYU indeed leaves the Mountain West to go independent and to join the WAC in all other sports?

Dr. Laura Bows Out After N-Word Rant

A week after igniting controversy with racially charged comments on her nationally syndicated radio show, advice guru Laura Schlessinger went on “Larry King Live” Tuesday evening to announce that she plans to leave the program when her contract runs out at the end of the year. “I want my 1st Amendment rights back, which I can’t have on radio without the threat of attack on my advertisers and stations,” Schlessinger said. She emphasized that she is not retiring. “I will be stronger and freer to say my mind through my books, my YouTube Channel, my blog and my website,” she said/Los Angeles Times. More here. (AP Photo/Susan Sterner, File)

Question: Are you going to miss Laura Schlessinger’s show?

Ex-Attendant: Steven Slater No Hero

Sure, there were problems. Hijackings were a constant source of concern, for one thing. Bickel, who flew out of New York for a couple of years, said he once had Wilt Chamberlain tossed off a flight for making a joke about a bomb. But to hear him tell it, it was nothing like the stew of stress that provoked the cultural hero of the moment, Steven Slater. Slater walked off the job as a flight attendant after unleashing a profanity-laced tirade on the PA system, deploying the emergency chute, grabbing two beers and sliding off to fame and adoration. But about that hero business? Bickel – a longtime talk-show host in Spokane who watched talk radio slide into the partisan, vitriolic soup – isn’t persuaded/Shawn Vestal, SR. More here

Question: Is flight attendant Steven Slater a hero in your eyes for the way he quit his job, with a profanity-laced tirade on the PA system & emergency chute exit?

Ramirez: Freedom Of Religion?

Michael Ramirez/Investor’s Business Daily

Vandal Store Opens In Bronco Country

Item: Vandal Store opens in the heart of Bronco country/Scott Evans, KTV

More Info: This afternoon Boise Police shut down two blocks in downtown Boise for the grand opening of the Vandal Store. The governor, Boise’s mayor and the president of the University of Idaho were all on hand. Each gave a short speech to over 100 people that stood on Idaho Street waiting for their chance to get inside. Once inside, Vandal fans were excited to spend money.

Question: What kind of Vandal gear do you own?

P.S. Seattle’s Wayward Plane

Lee Daily, left, is interviewed by an agent of the United States Secret Service at Kenmore Air today in Kenmore, Wash. Daily’s float plane, crossing the Cascade mountain range headed to Seattle from Lake Chelan, violated the exclusion zone set up to protect President Barack Obama during his trip to the west coast. Daily was ordered to land at Kenmore Air Harbor. (AP Photo/The Seattle Times, Dean Rutz)

Rick Thomas Wild Card — 8.17.10

Let’s dedicate today’s Wild Card to Rick Thomas, the long-time business writer who no longer is employed by the Coeur d’Alene Press. Rick provided a lot of good stories for the Press. But his services apparently are no longer needed. He may not have gushed enough in a recent story re: a local big shot. Coeur d’Alene Press writers always have to be careful what you write re: the various tin gods in this community. I’ll miss his reports. Now, for your daily Wild Card …

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.17.10

  • 5:50 p.m. St. Maries man hurt in rollover on H3 & M/P 92 (north of St. Maries) @ 3:03 p.m. today. ISP report here.
  • 5:44 p.m. Peak Fitness worker reports that a male in a vehicle parked in the lot is checking out customers at the center.
  • 5:29 p.m. Railroad signals @ H53 & Pleasantview/Hauser are going up & down w/o train approaching.
  • 5:23 p.m. Possible unattended death @ Seltice Way & Howard.
  • 5:04 p.m. PFPD Blue reports that 2 males are hard to see as they’re pushing a convertible Mustang along Spokane Street.
  • 4:27 p.m. EMTs are responding to report of an ill male @ Coeur d’Alene Memorial Gardens cemetery on Government Way.
  • 4:09 p.m. Crash with injuries @ Ponderosa & Spencer/Post Falls.
  • 4:08 p.m. 2-vehicle crash is blocking 15th & Shadduck/CdA and sending 2 to hospital. The scene has a lot of hazmat fluids spilled and broken glass.
  • 4:04 p.m. A 10YO boy with a bleeding face is sitting on a Post Falls street curb.
  • More below

PM Headlines — 8.17.10

Pecky Cox/As The Lake Churns writes on her blog: “For three days I watched from Casa Cox as this 10-year old girl tried to get up on skis. She fell and tried and fell and tried time after time all morning long. Later in the afternoon she again tried time after time.Today (day 3) she did it!! Her name is Jenny, she will always remember the day she became a Priest Lake water skier.”

Question: When did you first get up on skis?

McCrory Denies Contempt Charge

Update: McCrory denied that he was in contempt of court, at the hearing this afternoon. Now, Judge Charles Hosack will set a date in September to hear the case.

A contempt of court hearing involving Bill McCrory, a supporter in Jim Brannon’s long-running suit to overturn the 2009 Coeur d’Alene City Council election results, is scheduled for 3 o’clock this afternoon in 1st District Judge Charles Hosack’s courtroom. Scott Reed, the attorney for Councilman Mike Kennedy, wants McCrory held in contempt of court for allegedly violating a confidentiality agreement in the case. According to an Aug. 13 Coeur d’Alene Press story, Reed complained that voter information pertaining to the recently-reviewed absentee envelopes wasn’t supposed to be shared outside the courtroom and Bill McCrory violated that privacy agreement. Stay tuned.

Question: How do you think this’ll play out?

APhoto Of The Day — 8.17.10

Spectator Sue Lees of Hamilton, Ontario kisses competitor Tibor Szabo of Guelph, Ontario with his head completely covered with honey  bees, at the Clovermead  Bees & Honey,  Bee  Beard Competition in Aylmer, Ontario, Canada, Saturday. You write the cutline. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Dave Chidley)

Top Cutlines:

  • 1. Sue Lees demonstrates a cheaper alternative to Botox for women who want lips like Angelina Jolie’s — Shannon (made me bust out laughing)
  • 2. (tie) Tibor shows Sue that beauty is in the eye of the bee holder — JohnA; and: With apologies to the J. Geils Band, “Love STINGS!” — Eddie Torreal.
  • 3. To bee or not to bee, that is the stinging question — Charlies.
  • HM: Kage Mann & Nic (not a lot of entries, but every entry was good)

Hydros Return To Lake Coeur d’Alene

For the first time in more than 40 years, hydroplanes capable of speeds up to 175 miles per hour will zoom around Lake Coeur d’Alene this weekend. But they will not race, as they did in the 1950s and 1960s, drawing some of the biggest crowds ever seen at an Idaho sporting event, but also generating controversy due to unruly spectators. The vintage boats are coming to Coeur d’Alene, complete with drivers and pit crews, from the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum in Kent. They’ll be here for the Diamond Cup Regatta, a fundraiser for the Museum of North Idaho. The weekend of events will include a display of the boats outside The Coeur d’Alene Resort on Friday afternoon, a Saturday night banquet and rides on Sunday for 12 lucky people/Alison Boggs, SR. More here. (Courtesy photo from North Idaho Museum: The U-21cruises Lake Coeur d’Alene on July 20, 1962. Hydroplane races were held on the lake from 1958 to 1968)

Question: Do you intend to watch hydroplane runs on Lake Coeur d’Alene this weekend?

Downtown CdA Bar Report (Aug. 4-11)

  • 3:01 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 5 (407 Sherman): Officers responded to a Suspicious Person call regarding a group of males sitting in a vehicle in the Iron Horse parking lot that had dumped garbage out of vehicle, took off, later returned and one of the occupants had urinated on a catering van in the back lot.
  • 1 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 7 (200 block of Coeur d’Alene): Officers cited a 24 year old male for open container after noticing him standing in the parking lot of the Torch with a bottle of brandy in his hand. The suspect advised it was his bottle of brandy and he was just trying to save some money.
  • 2 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 7 (300 block of Sherman): Officers responded to a Disorderly call reference an extremely intoxicated male in front of the Icon who was slapping girl’s buttocks as they walked by him.
  • 2:26 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 8 (100 block of Sherman): Officers responded to a very intoxicated female who was found crying in the parking lot of the Bonsai Bistro. She told the officers she had been drinking at the Icon that night and her friends had left her there.
  • Much more here

ITD Will Comply w/Judge’s Order

The Idaho Transportation Department, through spokesman Jeff Stratten, issued the following statement today in response to 2nd District Judge John Bradbury issuing a temporary restraining order against four oversize truck shipments on U.S. Highway 12 proposed by ConocoPhillips: “The transportation department will fully comply with Idaho law in reviewing over-legal permit requests on any state highway. No permits have been issued to ConocoPhillips to haul over legal loads on U.S. 12. The transportation department is continuing its analysis of the ConocoPhillips request. The hearing on Friday is part of that process.” The judge set a hearing for this Friday morning in Grangeville on a request for an injunction against the shipments/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise.

Question: On Facebook, Randy Stapilus/Ridenbaugh Press states that this issue could blow up into a significant political problem for Gov. Butch Otter, adding: “Deserves to be — it’s about where priorities are.” Do you agree that the oversize shipments could hurt Otter?

Blagojevich Guilty On 1 Of 24 Counts

Former Illinois Gov. Rod  Blagojevich kisses his wife Patti as they arrive at the Federal Court building earlier today in Chicago. On the 14th day of the trial, a divided jury convicted the former Illinois governor of only one count of the 24 filed against him, for making false statements to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Story here. (AP Photo/Kiichiro Sato)

Question: Are you surprised that only one charge stuck to former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich?

UI No. 153, BSU Ranks Regionally

In its best colleges issue, U.S. News & World report ranks the University of Idaho 153rd among national universities, both public and private. Harvard University topped the list. Ranking criteria include graduation rate, class size, acceptance rate and peer assessment. University of Idaho ranked 81st among top public schools. Other public universities in the West on that list: University of Washington (11th), University of Oregon (52nd), Washington State (52nd), University of Utah (63rd) Oregon State University (70th), Utah State (92nd), Montana State University (101st), University of Nevada-Reno (107th). Boise State was ranked 51st among regional universities in the West. The category includes universities that offer a full range of undergrad programs and some master’s programs but few doctoral programs/Katy Moeller, Idaho Statesman. More here.

Question: Would you rather be known as the top academics college in the Western Athletic Conference or have one of the best football teams in the nation?

Obama Visit Shakes Up Seattle

President Barack  Obama and Sen.  Patty  Murray, D-Wash., left, take part in a roundtable discussion with small business owners at Grand Central Bakery in Seattle earlier today. Story here. Also: Seattle was hit by sonic booms when fighter jets scrambled to intercept a pilot who’d flown his plane inside a restricted area set up around Boeing Field for the president’s visit here. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Question: Do you view the president’s visit to Seattle as a sign that veteran U.S. Sen. Patty Murray may be in trouble this fall?
 

Shock Sells Vuvuzelas For Title Game

The Spokane Shock are selling vuvuzelas — those annoying horns that made the World Cup all that more difficult to watch — for Arena Football League championship showdown with the Tampa Bay storm Friday night in Spokane. Seriously. You can buy them for $6 at the Shock office now. Or for $8 at the Spokane Arena on game day. But why would you?

Question: Would you be more or less likely to attend an Arena Football League championship game, if you knew you had to put up with the sound of vuvuzelas?

On Stage With Michael Franti

At the Festival at Sandpoint last weekend, Erna Rhinehart snapped this amazing photo of singer Michael Franti singing with a group of girls, without realizing that the girl shown on center stage is Susan Drumheller’s daughter, Megan. Susan, of course, is a former, long-time SR colleague of mine who now handles North Idaho duties for the Idaho Conservation League.

TFTN: It’s Costly To Grow Old In Idaho

The Idaho Chapter of the American Association of Retired Persons recently released a survey about the price of aging that makes sobering reading. According to AARP, it costs about $75,000 a year for nursing home care in Idaho. The median annual household income in Twin Falls County is $50,700. “Many people believe Medicare will cover all of their long-term care costs, when in fact it pays for only a fraction,” said Jim Wordelmann, AARP’s state director. And with Medicare predicted to run out of money by 2022 without major changes, Idahoans nearing retirement have cause for concern/Twin Falls Times News Editorial Page. More here.

Question: Can you afford to grow old in Idaho?

INW Headlines — 8.17.10

A newly born  chick rests its head on  eggs  inside the game area of the Lane County Fair Monday in Eugene, Ore. The fair will open on Wednesday. (AP Photo/The Register-Guard, Kevin Clark)

Lakeland, Post Falls Pull KTEC Link, Too

Here’s how Lakeland School District business manager Tom Taggart responded to Jacob Minter’s request to remove KTEC link from Web site: “We appreciate your concern and would agree that the school district should not use resources to directly promote a position, one way or the other, concerning the KTEC levy. As in other school district levies we want to provide information, while stopping short of including a “vote yes” statement in any of our materials. I have followed the link you included in your email to the KTEC site and have read the portion that includes the “Vote yes” language.  While I think this is not a legal violation, I do think it goes beyond on usual practice during elections. We will be removing the link, but keeping the other informational materials posted.”

Question: Why do you think the school districts complied so quickly to Jacob’s request?

Hazel Orders KTEC Link Removed

Superintendent Hazel Bauman of Coeur d’Alene School District order a link to KTECHigh.org removed after she received this e-mail from patron Jacob Minter: “As you’re aware, the Coeur d’Alene School District’s main website contains a brochure about KTEC which provides a link to ktechigh.org as a source of ‘more information’ on the proposal.  Linking there is highly inappropriate on the District’s part given that this website is wildly biased in favor of KTEC and even contains an explicit plea to ‘[v]ote YES on the KTEC Levy, coming August 24th.’  The District’s responsibility should be to provide accurate, objective information to parents and voters so that they can make an informed decision at the ballot box. It should not be directing curious voters to sites biased one way or the other, especially sites explicitly instructing readers to ‘vote yes’ or ‘vote no.’”

Question: Did Hazel Bauman do the right thing by removing the link?

High Noon: Celebrating Suffrage

On her Main Street blog, Kerri Thoreson writes: “Wednesday, August 18, a celebration of the 90th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment will be at the Coeur d’Alene Resort at 7 p.m. This living history presentation by actress/historian Tames Alan will bring the Women’s Suffrage movement to life. My friend, Rep. Marge Chadderdon is hosting this free and open-to-the-public event and will also give an overview of Women’s Suffrage in Idaho’s history. I’m honored that she’s invited me to emcee the evening”

Question: Do you consider yourself a part of the women’s movement of today?

HBO Poll: Let Relay Race Continue

  • Monday Poll: 115 of 189 (61%) of the respondents said the Spokane-to-Sandpoint relay race should be allowed to continue in the future, despite the crashes this year that killed one participant and seriously injured two others. 60 of 189 (32%) said the race should be stopped. 14 of 189 (7%) were undecided.
  • Today’s Question: Was Gov. Butch Otter right in allowing PhillipsConoco to ship huge refinery equipment through the Clearwater/Lochsa river canyon?

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.17.10

  • Noonish: Caller reports that someone named Shane has stolen his bike from Post Falls Middle School and is now in the process of taking it apart w/help from an adult.
  • 11:58 a.m. Dispatcher asks evidence official if there’s a missing iguana in police files and is told that a missing schnauzzer is on file but no iguana.
  • 11:17 a.m. EMTs are responding to report of ATVer w/broken ankle behind Rathdrum gas station.
  • 11:05 a.m. Caller reports that people w/o licenses are soliciting @ Lacey & Krest/Hayden.
  • 10:41 a.m. Possible drug activity is reported in 2200 block of Northwest Blvd/CdA.
  • 10:21 a.m. Someone has suffered serious injuries in a fall @ 3rd & Bay/Post Falls, near Centennial Trail. Ambulance is on the way.
  • 10:16 a.m. Caller reports that a loose Rottweiler attacked and injured another dog — and now is wandering @ Davenport & Wilbur/Dalton Gardens.
  • 10:09 a.m. Female reports that a suspicious male w/a dark complection is selling door to door @ Wyoming & Crusader/Hayden.
  • 9:52 a.m. An 11YO female reports that a male is looking through her window in 300 block of E. 9th/Post Falls.
  • 9:41 a.m. George @ Orchard & Ramsey/CdA reports that some kind of animal is trapped in his garage.
  • 9:01 a.m. Caller reports strange smell coming from residence in 700 block of Dundee Drive/Post Falls.
  • 8:59 a.m. William @ Coeur d’Alene Auto Recycling on Thomas Lane reports an auto burglary.

Judge Temporarily Blocks Shipments

2nd District Judge John Bradbury has issued a temporary restraining order blocking the Idaho Transportation Department from issuing permits to ConocoPhillips to haul four giant loads of oil refinery equipment over U.S. Highway 12 through the Clearwater/Lochsa river canyon. The judge set a hearing on the plaintiffs’ motion for a preliminary injunction for this Friday at 9 a.m. in Grangeville. He found that the plaintiffs showed prima facie evidence “that they may suffer great damange that would not be recoverable from ConocoPhillips if the transportation of the equipment is permitted by the Department, and that by issuing permits for the transportation of the equipment the Department may be violating its own regulations”/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: Should ConocoPhillips be allowed to haul four giant loads of refinery equipment over U.S. Highway 12 through the Clearwater/Lochsa river canyon?

Difference Between A Man & A Boy

On her Hauser Lake dock Monday, SR photo buddy Kathy Plonka was talking to her friend about her son, Jordan, stating that he was “a nice young man.” Then, she corrected herself and said, “I mean, boy.” At that point, Jordan, who was listening nearby, asked his mother: “What’s the difference between a man and a boy.” Without pausing, Kathy answered: “Height.”

Question: Any other differences you can think of?

CindyH: I Got Parasite, But Don’t Maul

CindyH, the Hux Online sub blogmistress extraordinaire, wasn’t impressed with that story re: the rogue bear that killed a man near Yellowstone National Park earlier this year. Seems the bear was stressed and had parasites. Facebooks Cindy: “Yeah. Well me, too, buddy. But you don’t see me mauling anyone. Besides, school will start soon, and I’ll be ‘parasite’ free for a few hours a day.”

Question: How many of you are looking forward to the start of school this fall, to be rid of your “parasites” for a coupla hours per day?

Idaho Blogs — 8.16.10

As a kid, my bologna had a first name (it was “O-s-c-a-r”)…and so did my sausage.  It was “J-i-m-m-y”.  And while James Dean may have been a rebel without a cause, Jimmy Dean was a good ole country boy with a hit single that most folks under 50 years-old have long forgotten (“Big John”), and a sausage brand that continues to define the “ground pork” genre for American consumers. As a grade school kid with Grand Ole Opry aspirations, I spent a lot of time singing “Big John”, and even more time eating Jimmy Dean sausage.  To this day I still love to sit down to my Okie mama-in-law’s biscuits and gravy with Jimmy Dean’s culinary namesake as the protein of choice (I prefer the spicy version).  As far as my  mama-in-law is concerned, if it ain’t Jimmy, it ain’t on the plate, cousin. Jimmy Dean passed away a little while ago, but his sausage lives on/Treasured Valley. More here.

Question: What’s you sausage meat and brand of choice

Venomous Vixen Draws A Crowd

Here’s another photo by Lillie Belle Photography of the clash between our Snake Pit Venomous Vixens and Hellgate Rollergirls at Skate Plaza Friday. The women in green are from the home team, which won 182-112 to even its record on the year to 1-1. They lost in July to the Lilac City Rollergirls and are scheduled to play again in September.

UIdaho: We’re No. 153!

On Twitter, several commenters are celebrating the University of Idaho’s spot in the annual ranking of top colleges by U.S. News & World Report — No. 153. Terry Harris of KEA tweets: “Are we bragging?” The U.S. News article says Idaho “offers a complete living and learning experience. The residential campus in Moscow, Idaho, matches beauty located in a small, friendly community. There are outdoor recreational activities and surprising cultural gems, like the four-day Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival each February. More than 13,000 students from around the nation and world attend the University of Idaho. The University of Idaho is a national research, land-grant institution committed to undergraduate and graduate research education with extension services responsive to Idaho and the region’s business and community needs.” More here. (BTW, MikeK is bragging because alma mater SMU is ranked 57th this year)

Question: Do you pay attention to the college rankings of U.S. News & World Report when looking at schools for yourself or your children? Where does your favorite college rank?

Lessons From Church, Kristofferson

Frank Church and Kristofferson are two very different dudes. Church drank sparingly of the devil’s libations, lived a morally moderate life and married his childhood sweetheart, Bethine. They remained passionately in love until the day he died, and, I suppose, even beyond. Church was a one-woman man if there ever was one. He lived in the fish bowl of public life, a do-gooder on display trying to find the right words on television for his beliefs so that he might help his countrymen make it through the mortgage, make it through the war or make it through life’s many other bumps in the road. Kris Kristofferson has also served us all - especially those afflicted with loneliness and broken hearts. He speaks to the emotionally mangled who have endured years without a sweet Bethine. He speaks to those who have learned to their despair how quiet and cold the world can be at 3 o’clock in the morning/Bill Hall, Lewiston Tribune. More here.

Question: Whose words or songs have helped you make it through the night?

AM Headlines — 8.17.10

The 185-mile Spokane-to-Sandpoint relay is under fire as a result of the two crashes involving participants that claimed one life. But the photo of Keith Erickson’s daughters above show what the race is suppose to be — a fun outing involving friends and family. Here is Nicole Erickson, 20, right (who ran the “brightest costume” leg, hence the colorful attire), and little sis Brooke Erickson, 14, left. Brooke is handing Nicole water at Nine Mile Falls area on W. Rutter Parkway Friday morning. The rest of the nine-member team is behind. Organizers say the relay will continue in future years despite the tragic accidents this year. See story below.

Taggart: KTEC Model Of Cooperation

I have been involved in local government in Kootenai County for over 28 years and I can tell you that this is one of the most amazing examples of cooperation and team work I have ever seen. We have three school districts, North Idaho College, local businesses, landowners, and the City of Rathdrum all working together to make this a reality. There have been challenges and disagreements along the way, but they have all been overcome as time after time individuals put aside their differences and focused on what is best for our children/Tom Taggart, Lakeland School District finance officer, via Bay Views. More here.

Question: Have you changed your mind re: supporting or not supporting the proposed Kootenai Technical Education Campus?

Minnick Not On GOP TV Target List

Idaho freshman Democratic Rep. Walt Minnick appears to have lucked out — so far — avoiding a TV campaign by the National Republican Congressional Committee. Politico reported Tuesday that the NRCC has reserved $22 million in TV time in 40 districts, 39 held by Democrats. Most of the Democrats are freshmen like Minnick, who are considered vulnerable by the NRCC, the campaign arm of the Republican House Caucus. NRCC leaders backed Vaughn Ward in the Idaho GOP primary, but Ward lost to state Rep. Raul Labrador by 9 percentage points. The NRCC has since added GOP nominee Labrador to its “Young Gun” program, but Minnick had a 17-1 cash-on-hand advantage over Labrador as of June 30/Dan Popkey, Idaho Statesman. More here.

Question: Why do you think Minnick isn’t on the TV campaign list of the National Republican Congressional Committee?

Spokane-to-Sandpoint Relay To Go On

Item: Despite death, Spokane to Sandpoint race will continue: Planners say crash wasn’t preventable/Mike Prager, SR

More Info: Glidden said the relay run should continue despite Saturday’s death. He noted other events that have been marred by crime, such as the shooting incident at this year’s Hoopfest in Spokane. “To cancel it, that’s ridiculous,” he said. Orth said the relay will continue in future years.

Question: Would you be hesitant to participate in the Spokane-to-Sandpoint relay, as a result of the two serious accidents this year, including the fatality Saturday?

Peter Ohm: I Am Not A Victim

RE: Worley cafe hit with racist graffiti/Hucks Online via KREM2

Peter Ohm (the Homestead restaurant/Worley target of racist graffiti): I am not a victim because those ignorant children did not harm me in any way, like the saying goes “stick and stones”. What I want to do is get the attention of the FBI so that they can escalate this and turn this into a felony hate crime. The funny thing that the article or report did not mention is that two of the people who sprayed painted KKK and swastikas are half Mexican. It’s like they hate half of themselves. I appreciate the words and I am really OK. I am a pretty tough individual and it takes a lot more than that to get me down. I just stick with the Lord and give him all my problems.

Question: What advice would you give Peter Ohm?

Signe: On The Same Side?

Signe Wilkinson/Philadelphia Inquirer

Elvis Presley Wild Card — 8.16.10

I didn’t realize that this is the day Elvis Presley died, in 1977, until I read about it on Kerri Thoreson’s Facebook page. Nor did I know that Blogmistress @ ilovecda.com had had a close encounter with the “Cooler Nazi” at Costco until I saw her tweet on Twitter. I know some of you have a thing about the social media. I certainly did for quite awhile. But now I consider it to be an indispensible part of what I do here. Huckleberries Online is much better for Facebook & Twitter. I appreciate my friends and followers on both. Now, for your first Wild Card of the work week …

Parting Shot — 8.16.10

Garrett Graham, 10, pushes his brother Nathan, 8, in a  tire in front of their home on Prarie Stream Way, Sunday afternoon in Columbus, Ind. The boys recently acquired the  tire to play with from their dad after the  tire gave way on his truck last week. (AP Photo/The Republic, Joel Philippsen)

Larry Craig: Use Ballots Not Bullets

Former Idaho GOP Sen. Larry Craig began his radio talk-show gig Monday saying it’s “very possible” that Republicans will win the U.S. House in November and put the odds at even for winning the Senate. “If you have a Republican House you stop Barack Obama and these liberal policies in their tracks,” Craig said during the first hour of a 3-hour guest-hosting appearance on KBOI-670. As for the Senate, Craig predicted GOP pickups in Colorado, Delaware, Florida and Indiana, but said, “It’s gonna be a push to take the Senate back over.”Craig, 65, said the upcoming election is among the most important in his lifetime/Dan Popkey, Idaho Statesman. More here. (AP/Lewiston Tribune file photo: Barry Kough; I couldn’t resist pulling out this fun miscue from the 2008 race)

Question: What do you make of Larry Craig’s prediction re: control of Congress after the 2010 elections?

PM Headlines — 8.16.10

Another cool Lewiston Tribune photo (this time by master photog Barry Kough): “Morning breaks along the calm Clearwater River. Our carriers are delivering papers in Lewis, Idaho, Latah, Nez Perce and Clearwater counties before the sun comes up. Asotin, Garfield and Whitman counties in Washington are also on the route.” More photos of lower Idaho Panhandle here.

APhoto Of The Day — 8.16.10

President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama react as their daughter Sasha gets a hole in oneas they play miniature golf in Panama City Beach, Fla., on Saturday. You write the cutline.

Top Cutlines:

  • 1. Sasha was asked by reporters after the game, “What is your handicap?” Sasha’s reply, “My father” — Charlie.
  • 2. Sasha celebrates her hole in one, remarking to reporters that she had practiced with her father by hitting golf balls off of crackers, i.e. ‘Putting on the Ritz’ — JohnA.
  • 3. Sasha reacts to sinking a put while her mother over-reacts and her father revs his “air motorcycle” — Gary D. Rhodes.
  • HM: Fishwife

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.16.10

  • 6:06 p.m. ISP officer is trying to overtake a foreign car that’s traveling 116 mph on I-90 through Post Falls.
  • 5:18 p.m. A male is staggering toward KFC on Appleway.
  • 5:13 p.m. Female reports that a male drove her off highway in a road rage incident near Highways 95 & 53/Garwood.
  • 4:34 p.m. A sick male is vomiting in the Post Falls post office on Greensferry.
  • 4:33 p.m. Young male driver of a n/b 1998 white Ford flipped off caller @ 1020 Lincoln Way/CdA.
  • 4:24 p.m. Caller reports that a female in a pickup w/Washington plates stopped to urinate publicly on Hauser Lake Road and then left n/b.

North Idaho Blogs — 8.16.10

Someone TP’d a neighboring home to Cis’s up in Bonner County. Facebooks Cis: “Some one did a neighbor last night … or they did it in celebration of a finish job of painting their interior.”

Question: Have you ever TP’d a house? Or been the victim of a TPer?

Coeur d’Alene Sets McEuen Hearings

Team McEuen has scheduled its first two public meetings for input on the McEuen Field reconstruction project. The public can weigh in on how the plans are progressing at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 21. A follow-up meeting is tentatively scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 18. The location for both meetings has not yet been determined/Coeur d’Alene Press.

Question: Do you plan to attend the hearings on McEuen Field this fall?

Road Kill

On Facebook, County Clerk Dan English offers this photo and the explanation: “On way to clerks meeting in southern Idaho … saw this poor moose a little past Wallace … but front of the car that hit him looked pretty tough too.”

Question: Am I the only one who’s saddened when he sees a deer, moose, or other magnificent wild animal dead along the road, after being hit by a vehicle?

How Jerry Kramer Got 1st Game Ball

You sports fans out there know that game balls are routinely given to players who performed exceptionally well during a football game. I bet you can’t guess how Sandpoint High/UI/Green Bay Packer great Jerry Kramer received his first game ball without playing a down in Sandpoint’s 45-0 victory over Bonners Ferry in his junior year. He was laid up after nearly blowing his arm off with his grandfather’s old double-barrel, 10-gauge shotgun, while duck hunting with another Bulldog star George Kom. Seems Kramer used the wrong end of the gun to poke a ball of moss into the water from his perch of a two-story high rock. And it went off. In Kramer’s “Farewell to Football” (my $1 garage sale find), the future NFL star said his arm looked like hamburger afterward. “I’d caught 15 or 20 pellets of No. 2 shot, pretty good-sized shot, in my side, and it burned like hell.” He credits local physicians Bill Hayden, Neil Wendle, & J.P. Munson with saving his arm. More: Jerry Kramer’s Wikipedia page. (AP file photo: Jerry Kramer (No. 64) helps carry Vince Lombardi off field after Green Bay’s 33-14 win over Oakland in Super Bowl II in January 1968)

Question: Did you know who Jerry Kramer is before I brought him up in two posts today?

Mag Spotlights Ironman CdA Winner

Linsey Corbin is congratulated by spectators as she approaches the finish line at Ford Ironman Coeur d’Alene with a course record of 9:17.54 Sunday, June 27 in downtown Coeur d’Alene. Now, the women’s champion from Missoula is the subject of an 11-page spread the September/October issue of Inside Triathlon magazine. Entitled “The Hard Way,” it focuses on Corbin’s commitment to live in Missoula and journey to a breakthrough Ironman win in June with a course-record time of 9:17.54 in Coeur d’Alene. More from Missoulian story here. (Spokesman-Review file photo)

Worley Cafe Hit w/Racist Graffiti

Peter Ohm, an Asian-American who has owned the Homestead Drive Inn in Worley for the last 5 years, is considering moving to southern California after his business was hit with racist graffiti earlier this month. According to Othello Richards of KREM2, Ohm’s “latest experience has left a bad taste in his mouth. That’s because someone wrote words like ‘dirty Jap’, ‘dog eater’, ‘fish face’ and ‘sell out’ on his restaurant last week.  He says he was embarrassed by it and covered it up. You can read more about the story and watch Richards’ KREM2 video report here.

Snake Pit Vixens Bop Hellgate 182-112

I don’t want to leave you hanging. Our Snake Pit Venomous Vixens stomped Hellgate Rollergirls 182-112 at Skate Plaza Friday night. Above, you see Vixens Angela Maris (front) trying to set up blocking for Kari Eff-Bomber Rettke (in green pants third to right) and Kristie Helraiser Blair (in green pants second to right). You can see 88 more photos of the action on Lillie Belle Photography Facebook page here. Snake Pit now is 1-1 on the season after losing to the Maidens of Mayhem (Lilac City Roller Girls) in July. Their next match is against Rolling Hills Derby Dames Sep. 19.

Butch OKs Club Of Picky Boise Debate

In mid-May, Gov. Butch Otter rejected an invitation to appear in a primary election forum saying some of his opponents were excluded from the event because they didn’t meet certain requirements set forth by Idaho Public Television (IPTV), which sponsored the debate.  However, Otter has decided to attend a debated slated for Sept. 15, sponsored by the City Club of Boise, which has chosen to exclude three gubernatorial candidates for not meeting certain polling thresholds. The City Club of Boise, a civics-minded organization dedicated to bringing political discussion to its members and the community at-large, decided in August to exclude Independents Jana Kemp and Pro-Life, as well as Libertarian Ted Dunlap, from a debate in September/Dustin Hurst, Idaho Reporter. More here.

Question: Does Gov. Butch Otter really care who is involved in a debate or who isn’t? Or is he simply using exclusions as a tactic to pick and choose which debates he goes to?

F&Ger Sez Judge Wolf Ruling ‘Asinine’

Idaho Fish & Game Commissioner Tony McDermott of Sagle said he’s been hearing from “frustrated sportsmen,” and he told Fish & Wildlife Service Regional Director Robin Thorson, “I’m not sure your federal rule failed, I think it was maybe the federal justice system and one judge that didn’t like the rule, didn’t like it for political reasons and threw it back into the political arena.” McDermott said that’s just his opinion, but said, “There are no good options out of the political arena right now” and said the issue on wolves is a “judge’s asinine decision.” McDermott also said he’s read the 10(j) rule, and it’s “unbelievably complicated,” saying, “I’m almost convinced it was written by at least 20 lawyers when it was written back in 1974”/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: Idaho claims it did everything right re: its handling of wolf hunts only to be thwarted by a federal judge who reinstituted the hunting ban because Wyoming couldn’t get its act together. Is this an example of an activist judge abusing his power?

INW Headlines — 8.16.10

At As The Lake Churns, Pecky Cox didn’t notice the blue heron in this photo until after she photographed the area as a public service to caution boaters on Priest Lake not to create waves in this area, which is called The Thorofare (the 2-1/2 mile channel to Upper Priest Lake that meanders through some of nature’s most spectacular forested scenery.) Can you spot the heron?

High Noon: Brother Learns FB Lesson

Sue: My older brother (5 siblings) is on facebook for his insurance biz, and far-flung kids/grandkids. My niece, his daughter, said ‘hi dad, facebook said I should contact you, so I am.’ He responded snippily, ‘why does it take a facebook prompt to get you to call.’ To which my sister replied, the phone works both ways you know. He responded, ‘how did you see that, can everyone on facebook see what I’m writing.’ My sister said, ‘yes, it’s facebook.’ He said everyone unfriend me right now. So my sister did. I’m holding out hope for him.

Question: Have you ever been burned by something you posted on Facebook/Twitter/or other social network sites?

HBO Poll: UI Fans Like Same As Others

  • Weekend Poll: 55 of 127 respondents (43.3%) said University of Idaho football fans are no better or worse than other college football fans, when asked to describe them. 26 of 127 (20.5%) described UI fans as “knowledgable & unethusiastic”; 24 of 127 (18.9%) said they suffered an inferiority complex; 18 of 127 said they are “inebriated & nasty” & 4 of 127 (3.1%) said they are “intellectual & cultured.” The Lewiston Tribune originated the poll.
  • Today’s Poll: In view of the 2 serious accidents involving Spokane-to-Sandpoint relay participants, including one fatality … should the 185-mile race be continued?

Mickelson Shot Dances On Lap

Phil Mickelson takes the ball off the lap of Matt Reinhart after his ball landed there on the 11th hole during the third round of the PGA Championship golf tournament Saturday at Whistling Straits in Haven, Wis. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

Question: How would you play this shot?

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.16.10

  • 11:59 a.m. Caller reports that a male in a wheelchair at entrance to Super 1/Kathleen Avenue doesn’t look well.
  • 11:50 a.m. Super 1/Kathleen Avenue has caught a shoplifter.
  • 11:40 a.m. A garbage can is lying on I-90 @ M/P 11 (Northwest Boulevard).
  • 10:57 a.m. Red Fish/Athol female reports her son won’t return her vehicle.
  • 10:31 a.m. Deputies are still looking for 2 males who ran off from a stolen vehicle in Diagonal & Sturgeon area.
  • 10:14 a.m. Several motorists have called w/concerns re: a German shepherd running loose at busy i/s of I-90 & H95.
  • 9:49 a.m. A hazmat team is responding to the report of an oil spill @ Government Way & Appleway.
  • 9:45 a.m. Female in 900 block of 16th/CdA reports that her 15YO granddaughter is trying to break thru back door of her house.
  • 9:42 a.m. EMTs are responding to report of a fall on Aisle No. 4 @ Safeway/Neider.
  • 9:38 a.m. Caller reports that a male motorist was smoking something from a glass pipe on I-90 & M/P 4 (near Spokane Street) and put it away when he saw caller watching him.
  • 9:08 a.m. Deputies are chasing 2 males who ran from a stolen vehicle and later were spotted running toward woods across property in 4600 block of Diagonal/Rathdrum. One was described as blond & wearing camo. No description of second one.
  • 8:50 a.m. A motorist is slumped over the wheel of a mini-van in snowplow turnaround area @ 24122 Highway 41.

Daily News: Does UI Think We’re Dumb?

We apparently are too stupid to consider properly how the University of Idaho plans to spend our money. The university is trying to upgrade its security services, and it turns out that is going to cost a lot more money, some $300,000 more, than it took last year when it was all handled by the Moscow Police Department. What is the necessity for that upgrade? What dire risks are facing our local institution of higher learning to require this substantial increase in spending of public tax dollars. It must be pretty important, considering the budget-cutting going on throughout government, including our colleges and universities. When Daily News reporter Holly Bowen asked that question Tuesday, before the increase had been approved, she was told the UI was “not making anyone available.” There would be no comment on this big increase in state spending until after Thursday’s meeting of the Idaho State Board of Education where the proposal was to be considered, approved and funded/Lee Rozen, Moscow-Pullman Daily News Editorial Board. More here.

Question: Does University of Idaho owe an explanation to the public re: its request to increase spending for security by $300,000?

UI Footballer Kramer Recalls Bad Prof

I went garage saleing for the first time this year w/Mrs. O on Saturday — and scored 2 treasures: A brand-new, still with shopping tags, for $2 and former Sandpoint/UIdaho/Green Bay Packer great Jerry Kramer’s 1969 “Farewell to Football” for $1. In his book, Kramer talks about playing football at Farmin Elementary, how he almost killed himself 2 or 3 times in Sandpoint, and how he did a lot of partying before he married during his Vandal days. One entry caught my attention. He describes how a UI professor — whom he described as “a complete ass” — discouraged him from being an engineer, calling him out in front of the whole class for being a football player. Seems the prof didn’t think Kramer could play football and study engineering. Kramer immediately dropped out. Kramer writes: He could’ve ruined my life. If I’d been seriously injured, I might not have been able to play football any more. … I wouldn’t have been prepared in the profession that really interested me.” GoVandals.net photos of Kramer as UI, Green Bay player. (AP file photo: Jerry Kramer & 2009 UI great Mike Iupati)

Question: Has anyone ever discouraged you from pursuing a career or life that interested you?

Once In A ‘Waxing Crescent’ Moon

Photographer Don Sausser e-mails Huckleberries Online: “Friday’s moon slowly sunk into the cleavage between Mica (on right) and another peak. This moon is referred to as a ‘Waxing Crescent’ where 23 percent is illuminated.’

Ben Stein: Osprey On Rail Bridge

Many of you will remember actor/commenter Ben Stein (pictured in AP file photo) as the monotone science teacher in “Ferris Bueller’s Day off.” But did you know that he regularly visits Sandpoint? In a recent post for CBS News, Stein writes that he doesn’t know how why gold prices are soaring while prices for everything else is stagnant. Or how the U.S. will keep Iran from having a nuclear bomb. Or why the U.S. Treasury is riding high when investors are nervous. Then he adds this: “I do know that on the south end of the railroad bridge across the mighty Pend Oreille River here in North Idaho, a family of osprey have built a magnificent, sturdy nest and sit unmoved as freight trains a mile long go by, shaking the whole town. I know they are fearless, majestic, a glory to see. They fly next to my little boat and dive on trout and bring them back to their nest, and I could watch them all day. I cannot figure out this wicked, cunning world of men”/Ben Stein, CBSnews.com. More here.

Question: Do you lose site of the beauty around us as a result of the various crises in this country and the world and the nastiness of partisan politics?

Kerri: I Remember Day Elvis Died

On Facebook, Kerri Thoreson writes: “I know exactly where I was 33 years ago today … sitting by the pool at the Portland apartment complex we managed while my little girls splashed. Couldn’t believe the news on the radio, Elvis was dead at age 42.” I was more of a Rolling Stones/Beatles/Animals fan than an Elvis Presley fan. But I remember watching the famous “Ed Sullivan Show” — my family always watched it together back in the day — in which producers filmed Elvis from the waist up to keep those gyrating hips from public view. I remember the day that Janis Joplin died better than the day Elvis did. How about you?

Question: Do you remember what you were doing when Elvis died?

Meghann: I Want To Pump My Own Gas

Twitter/Facebook/SR buddy Meghann Cuniff mentioned on her blog recently that she’s off on an well-deserved, two-week vacation back to her home country, Oregon. So I wasn’t surprised to see a post from Oregon on her Twitter account that sez pointedly: “At a gas station in Portland. Not being able pump your own gas is ridiculous but “I still love Oregon.” I agree with her bottom line. If I didn’t live in Idaho, I’d probably live in Oregon. Beautiful country. Much closer to the ocean. However, her observation about the gas stations there hit home. I’m not a patient sort. And I don’t like waiting for an attendant at an Oregon station to amble over to pump your gas … or to quit pumping it once the pump shuts off. How about you?

Question: What do you think of the Oregon law that requires attendants at stations pump gas?

Should 185-Mile Relay Race Continue?

Two Berry Pickers — Keith Erickson (and his daughters) and Dan @ Avista — participated in that Spokane-to-Sandpoint relay race of 185 miles that included Coeur d’Alene’s City Park and the east end of the Centennial Trail on the North Shore. As Mrs. O & I walked along the waterfront Friday evening, we encountered relay runners jogging around the college and out to Higgens Point. Some were already wearing lights to make them visible to motorists as they prepared to run north to Sandpoint. I thought they were crazy to run along busy, dark roads in the middle of the night. A woman had been hit by a vehicle that morning on the Newport Highway. On Saturday morning, of course, we learned of the tragic accident in which a Spokane County bicyclist was killed and her running mate injured on Highway 41, near Blanchard. So here’s the question:

Question: Given the 2 serious accidents involving participants, is it wise to continue the Spokane-to-Sandpoint race in future years?

AM Headlines — 8.16.10

You can find great photos of central Idaho on the Lewiston Tribune’s Facebook site, by photographers Barry Kough and Kerri Sandaine. In this photo, you can see how Rattlesnake Grade near Anatone lives up to its name. More Facebook photos here.

IloveCdA: Costco Gave Me Tourrettes

At ilovecda.com, Blogmistress tells of her close encounter with a “Cooler Nazi.” Seems her husband had sent her to Costco to buy a blue cooler. But all she could find was a gray cooler. The trouble began when she tried to take a cell-phone photo of the cooler and text it to her husband, to see if he was OK with the color: “Out of nowhere some gal comes running up to me and shrieks, ‘You can’t take pictures in Costco!’ Me: ‘What?’ Cooler Nazi: ‘You can’t take pictures in Costco!’ Me, seeing the dilemma and searching for a way to bring it to a swift conclusion, I try to explain that Hubs is obviously colorblind and a man of certain tastes: ‘Oh, sorry. I just need to snap a quicky and text it to my husband. He’s apparently colorblind and I want to make sure this is the one he wants.’ Cooler Nazi: ‘You can’t take pictures in Costco!’ Me: ‘Seriously?’ Cooler Nazi: ‘You can’t take pictures in Costco!’” You can see how this played out here.

Question: Have you ever had a close encounter with an equivalent to the “Cooler Nazi”?

Pantry Morphs Into Kootenai Cafe

“I know exactly what I did wrong and how not to do it again,” Hanes told me on my recent visit to the newly re-opened diner which he rechristened the Kootenai Café, perhaps in an attempt to shake off any lingering bad juju. A reduction in operating hours and staff, along with a strong sense of perspective should hopefully keep the doors open this time. Otherwise, not a lot of changes have taken place, other than the addition of a salad bar area in the back corner and some shuffling around of booths and tables to allow for a bit more seating. For the time being, Kootenai Café will be a breakfast and lunch only sort of situation, with plans to expand back into a 24-hour diner at some point later on/Patrick Jacobs, Get Out! North Idaho. More here.

Question: Were you a fan of Michael Hanes’ 4th Street Pantry? Do you plan to check out his new Kootenai Cafe in the same location?

Minnick Urges Wait-See For Waters

Democrat Walt Minnick, the representative from Idaho’s 1st Congressional District in the U.S. House, is continuing to urge those involved with the ethics allegations of fellow Rep. Maxine Waters, D-Calif., (pictured) to take a “wait-and-see” approach. Waters is accused of arranging special deals with bailout money for a bank in which her husband owned stock.  The California congresswoman, serving her 10th term, has denied any wrongdoing in the case. In a statement for IdahoReporter.com last week, Minnick’s campaign spokesman, John Foster, said his boss would learn more about the Waters’ case while he was in D.C. this week to cast his vote on the latest spending bill.  Friday, when queried again about the case, Foster explained that Minnick is going to let the situation play out further before making a final judgement/Dustin Hurst, Idaho Reporter. More here

Question: Is Congressman Walt Minnick’s wait-and-see approach in the Waters’ ethics situation the proper approach?

Anderson: Nation Building?

Nick Anderson/Houston Chronicle

Weekend Wild Card — 8.14-15.10

The Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre saved its best for last, per usual. Mrs. O & I both thought the musical with a strong civil rights bent, “Hairspray,” was the theatre’s best production of the year (although the other plays were good, too). Also, we learned that CST will perform “Sound of Music” and “Wizard of Oz” next year. A third play was announced Saturday night. But I can’t remember which it was. I hadn’t heard of it before. Theatre goers were asked to vote for the final play. I checked “Rent.” But I hear that insiders believe “Ragtime” will be the choice because the buzz among voters seemed to be in that direction. We’ll see around Christmas when the theatre announced the fourth play. While we wait, I’ll replay the weekend Wild Card …

Participant Dies In 2nd Relay Accident

ISP says the driver appears to have crossed the center line (about 6:30 a.m. on Highway 41 near Blanchard), and hit a cyclist and then a runner next to her, who were taking part in the Spokane to Sandpoint race. The cyclist, 46-year-old Patti Lambi, was airlifted to Kootenai Medical Center, where she later died. The runner, a 17-year-old girl, was taken to the hospital with multiple fractures, but has since been released. Both people are from Spokane Valley.The driver who caused the crash is 31-year-old Bowdeen S. Kahuhu from Newport. She was arrested and booked into the Bonner County Jail on Vehicular Manslaughter charges/Ben Leighton, KXLY. More here.

APhoto Of The Weekend — 8.14-15.10

Miss Paraguay 2010 Yohana Benitez Olmedo, and Miss Sweden 2010 Michaela Savic, rehearse with choreographer Michael Schwandt for the upcoming Miss Universe Competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nev., on Friday. The Miss Universe 2010 competition will be broadcast live on the NBC at 9 p.m. EST on Aug. 23. You write the cutline. (AP Photo/Miss Universe Organization LP, LLLP)

Review: ‘Eat Pray Love’ Satisfies Core

Item: ‘Eat Pray Love’ filling and fulfilling/Christy Lemire, Associated Press

More Info: “Eat Pray Love” provides exactly what it should to satisfy its core audience: a gorgeous escape, exquisitely photographed and full of female wish fulfillment. Yet it also offers sufficient emotional heft and self-discovery to make you feel as if you’ve actually learned something. It’s easy to see why author Elizabeth Gilbert’s memoir became an international phenomenon. Everyone’s looking for something – for answers, for their true and higher purpose – and Gilbert had the fortitude (and the wherewithal) to take off alone on a journey around the world to find herself after her divorce.

Question: We reviewed ‘Eat Pray Love’ when we had the old HBO Book Club. Do you plan to see the movie?

Jimmy: Hagadone Offers Fair Wage

RE: Eagle Eye: Duane Hagadone still ‘King of CdA’/Huckleberries Online

JimmyMac: To be fair, there were plenty of times when I thought I could be paid more while working in the empire. In hindsight, analyzing incomes is a huge part of my business today and I guarantee you that Duane’s pay (**at least in the hospitality business**) is right in line with and nothing less than his competitors. The key difference is that we don’t know, see, or are as familiar with the owners and majority stakeholders of the types of businesses that are Hagadone’s direct competitors. Those competitor’s — Hyatt, Four Season’s, Oriental Express, Fairmont, etc. etc., seem to be very comparable with their pay and profits among the executive level - nothing too out fo the ordinary. The major difference is Duane is one of the last remaining private individual principals in this business. More here.

Question: Have you ever worked for Duane Hagadone? What capacity? Were you paid a fair wage?

Costello: Sell Pork Next To That Mosque

I’m all for the Ground Zero mosque in New York City. But I have a few conditions. If, as New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg says, commitment to diversity and tolerance is what New York’s firefighters and other first responders gave their lives for on Sept. 11, 2001, then all sides need to show the same level of commitment to that principle. So I suggest that we all embrace Fox News host Greg Gutfeld’s idea of a Muslim gay bar next door to the Ground Zero mosque. And I would go a little farther. On the opposite side of the mosque, we should have a barbecue restaurant that specializes in North Carolina pulled pork sandwiches and Kansas City spareribs. And across the street we need a Fredrick’s of Hollywood storefront. And perhaps a Larry Flynt strip club behind the mosque. Then we’ll find out who truly is intolerant/Michael Costello, Lewiston Tribune. More here.

Question: What do you make of Michael Costello’s view of tolerance in New York City?

Monster Loads To Move On Scenic Road

Item: Wide, wide loads opposed: Huge oil equipment to move along scenic Idaho highway/Betsy Russell, Spokesman-Review

More Info: A scenic Idaho river canyon dotted with campgrounds, hiking trails and historic sites could become the thoroughfare for hundreds of mammoth truck shipments of Korean-built equipment for the Alberta oil sands project in Canada – a prospect that’s raising an outcry from residents, recreationists and tourist businesses along the route. But the project’s biggest booster is Idaho Gov. Butch Otter, who welcomed it long before locals heard about it. Otter says it’ll be done right, but critics aren’t convinced and are concerned about Otter’s handling of the issue.

Question: Is Butch Otter compromising the important tourist industry in the Clearwater/Lochsa river canyon by allowing this huge shipments on Highway 12?

Sheriff Sues County Seeking More Money

Item: Sheriff sues Kootenai County: Watson wants attorney fees paid so he can file suit over budget issues/Alecia Warren, CdA Press

More Info: Frustrated at how county department budgets have been slashed evenly during the recession, Watson says he wants to sue to determine if its legal for the county to fund unmandated services while mandated ones — like sheriff’s department staff — go underfunded.

Question: Does Sheriff Watson have a legitimate point? Or is he being unrealistic on seeking more money for his department at a time when public agencies are pinching pennies?

Ramirez: Job Numbers Look Bad

Michael Ramirez/Investor’s Business Daily

Eagle Eye: Duane Hagadone Still King

Re: Chesrown gives up on Black Rock/John Stucke, SR

Eagle Eye: Interesting that 5 years ago a number of people were talking about the passing of the CdA power torch from Hagadone to Chesrown and Stone. I think at that time the old man just chuckled a little and said give it some time. Hagadone has taken on several risky ventures from the Resort to the Resort Golf Course to the Terrace Condos. But one thing he is would be one smart dude when it comes to business and developments. Coeur d Alene has never seen anyone with the business saavy that he has. Give the guy his due. And five years later he is still the King of CdA!

Question: Do you agree w/Eagle Eye that pretenders come and go, but Duane Hagadone remains “King of CdA!”

P.S. Franti Joins Festival Yogafest

From Festival at Sandpoint Facebook page: musician Michael Franti joins fans at Sandpoint’s Memorial Field for Yogafest this morning. Franti will be performing from 7:30-10:30 tonight at Memorial Field. You can find the rest of the festival schedule through closing day Sunday here.

Question: Do you yoga?

Friday the 13th Wild Card — 8.13.10

From Twitter today, KXLY points out: “”Friggatriskaidekaphobia” - the fear of Friday the 13th. Say that 10 times fast!” I’ve never been bothered by Friday the 13th. Or the number 13 for that matter. In fact, I liked to wear No. 13 when I was playing sports. Now heights are another matter. I don’t like them. At all. Do you have a thing for Friday the 13? If not, would you mind naming your particular phobia? You can do that or use this Wild Card to describe a phobia …

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.13.10

  • 5:27 p.m. Officer reports non-injury, boat crash @ Hayden Lake Marina.
  • 5:26 p.m. BNSF railroad lights are malfunctioning @ H41 & Hayden/Rathdrum.
  • 5:17 p.m. Daanen’s Deli/Hayden reports a shoplifter took goods half an hour ago.
  • 5 p.m. KCSD reports re: Post Falls standoff situation: “Due to HIPPA regulations, the name of the woman cannot be released.  The woman’s husband arrived home shortly before the situation was resolved and eventually was able to take custody of the children.”
  • 4:57 p.m. Quick Stop @ 1720 Northwest Blvd/CdA reports customer tried to drive off w/gas muzzle still attached to pump.
  • 4:56 p.m. A transient is asleep or unconscious @ 1028 Fourth/CdA.
  • 4:36 p.m. Officer reports that the .38 snub nose handgun hasn’t been located at the site of the Post Falls standoff.
  • 4:33 p.m. A vehicle has hit a bicyclist @ 930 Emma/CdA.
  • 4:12 p.m. Sounds as though Post Falls standoff has ended peacefully, w/female giving herself up.
  • 4:01 p.m. Officers have contacted female involved in murder-suicide threat in Post Falls. She doesn’t want to leave her house. Seems she is in her son’s upstairs bedroom.
  • Much more below

PM: New Scales Will Weigh On The Fly

A $6.7 million Washington port of entry and weigh station complex under construction along Interstate 90 at the Idaho state line will provide nonstop service to many truckers, Department of Transportation spokesman Al Gilson said this week. He said scales embedded in the highway in front of the existing weigh station, about one-half mile east of its replacement , will weigh trucks on the fly. Bert Caldwell’s SR story here.

Artwalk Tonight In Downtown CdA

I’m not exactly sure where this Idaho Scenic Images photo by Linda Lantzy was taken. Mebbe far northeastern corner of Washington state. She calls it “Big Muddy.” Remember, you can a collection of Linda’s photos tonight at Angel Gallery during the Artwalk in downtown Coeur d’Alene. Tell her that Huckleberries Online sent you.

5 Hurt In Crash Near Silverwood

Both drivers and three small children (ages 8, 5, & 2) suffered minor injuries when a vehicle driven by a Washington man tried to make a U-turn near the entrance to Silverwood shortly after noon today. Anthony P. Garcia, 21, of Mount Vernon, Wash., and three children in his back seat were slightly hurt when Garcia missed the entrance to Silverwood and tried to make a U-turn on Highway 95 in front of Pamela J. Ulibarry, 49, of Midvale, Utah. Garcia, who was cited for inattentive driving & driving w/o a license, was driving a 1996 Saturn. Ulibarry was driving a 2009 Dodge. All five people who were taken to Kootenai Medical Center were wearing seatbelts. One of the southbound lanes was blocked for awhile. KREM2 report.

Larry Craig To Sub On KBOI Radio

Former Idaho GOP Sen. Larry Craig will be on KBOI-670 from 4 p.m. to 7 Monday, filling in for conservative host Nate Shelman. Craig will be joined by Wayne Hoffman, executive director of the Idaho Freedom Foundation, and formerly an Statesman political reporter and spokesman for former U.S. Rep. Bill Sali, R-Idaho. Shelman, who will be vacationing, said Craig will field phone calls and focus on politics, elections and the economy. Shelman said he doesn’t expect Craig to take questions about his 2007 conviction for misdemeanor disorderly conduct in connection with a sex sting in a men’s room at the Minneapolis airport/Dan Popkey, Idaho Statesman. More here.

Question: What question would you ask Larry Craig, if his airport bathroom escapade was off limits?

Dustin Plans To Buy A Bow Tie

On Facebook and Twitter, Dustin Hurst/Idaho Reporter announced this afternoon: “I plan on buying a bow tie when I get home (from DC journalism conference). It’s the cool thing to do in DC.” I took note b/c I listened to a books-on-tape story by humorist David Sedaris re: bow ties during my recent road trip to California. And my son, who’s now in northern Florida (which is the southern boundary of the old South) reports that bow ties are still in vogue there.

Question: What advice would you give Dustin re: bow ties?

Steele Allowed To Meet Wife

The alleged victim in a North Idaho murder-for-hire plot will be allowed to visit the man suspected of hiring someone to kill her. Cyndi Steele is allowed to meet with Edgar J. Steele once at the Spokane County Jail to discuss “their common property and interests, as well as financial issues related to their children,” according to an order filed in U.S. District Court in Coeur d’Alene on Wednesday. “If the defendant or Mrs. Steele attempt to discuss the case or anything related to it, Mr. Peven shall immediately terminate the visit,” the order from U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill reads/Meghann M. Cuniff, Sirens & Gavels. More here.

Question: What do you think Cyndi Steele will say to Edgar (if they’re not allowed to discuss the case in any way)?

Shirtless In Sweden

American Iggy Pop performs in Goteborg, Sweden, at the Way Out West music festival. (AP Photo / Bjorn Larsson Rosvall)

Question: What rule of thumb should older men consider before they decide to take off their shirts in public — for example, when mowing their front or side lawns?

Shaking Off Vacation Cobwebs

As you probably know by reading Hux Online this week, I needed a few days to shake off the vacation cobwebs. Not only did my fingers and still-vacationing brain produce a few fun miscues in the material out front — shifting Raul Labrador’s birthplace from Puerto Rico to Cuba, for example — but I didn’t have the mojo working. When I’m on top of my game at Hux Central, I have a certain rhythm that flows across my social networking. That’s only beginning to happen today, four days after my return from my two-week-plus-one-day vacation. I allowed myself a soft landing this week, eschewing my regular print column — and not becoming frustrated when I couldn’t blog at the speed of light for the first few days. How about you?

Question: How long does it take you to get into the work flow after returning from vacation? Also, do you have any tricks you use re: how you get back into the work flow?

Idahoan Keeps Model-Train Masterpiece

Jesse Bennett likes to build things. He took the timber on his property and built his home. Once that was complete he dedicated his energies to a life long hobby of building model trains.Bennett — friends call him Jess — has been building trains since 1958. It’s a hobby likely sparked during the Great Depression when as a young man, he headed west with three dollars to his name. Thousands of hours of hard work and intricate detail helped create his labor of love. “I’ve had to make a part maybe two or three times to get it exactly right but never was frustrated with it,” Jess said/Tania Dall, KXLY. More here.

Question: Did you ever play with model trains?

INW Headlines — 8.13.10

HucksOnline published the “after” photo of this 1929 Packard convertible that auto restorer Glenn Vaughn restored. Here’s how owner Richard Comstock found it in 1981. Now, the Packard is headed for the prestigious Pebble Beach car show. You can see the “after” photo again here. (Photo courtesy of Glenn Vaughn)

High Noon: No Mountain Too High

Kathy Engh, pictured, believes sometimes you find something you’re just meant to do. For her, that’s mountain climbing. “I took a class with Spokane Mountaineers last year,” she said. “I just fell in love with it.” The 44-year-old said she enjoys the physical and mental challenge. “It’s hard work – I have to give it everything I have.” But she finds the rewards unparalleled. Recently, she returned from an expedition to Mount Rainier that coupled the exhilaration of a climb with the passion of a higher purpose. From July 8 to 10, Engh and 10 other climbers participated in the annual Climb to Conquer SADS (Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes). Engh was the only woman on the trip and one of the eight climbers who summited/Cindy Hval, SR’s Washington Voices. More here.

Question: Have you ever climbed a mountain?

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.13.10

  • 12:04 p.m. At least 3 children have been injured in a head-on collision at the entrance to Silverwood, H95 @ M/P 446. Highway 95 is blocked.
  • 11:51 p.m. A boat is 60% submerged 3 miles east of the Priest River Bridge, with the pump still running. The boat was upright at 4 p.m. Thursday.
  • 11:32 p.m. A small girl is playing in the road @ Dakota & Government Way/Hayden.
  • 11:15 p.m. A female is locked in her bedroom w/a gun on H57 (Priest Lake area) b/c she believes an unknown male entered her property after her husband left for work.
  • 10:53 a.m. Boxes are lying on I-90 @ M/P12 (H95).
  • 10:33 a.m. Resident reports paving trucks speeding to construction zone on Fernan Lake Road.
  • 10:24 a.m. Large dock is floating about 200 yards Kidd Island Bay/Lake CdA shore.
  • 10:03 a.m. A vehicle has hit a moose on H95 near the Boundary-Bonner county line.
  • 9:55 a.m. Texas authorities have requested help from local police in delivering a death notice to a Post Falls couple.
  • 9:50 a.m. Shannon reports a shoplifter is being uncooperative @ Super 1/CdA.
  • 9:40 a.m. 2 5YO children may have suffered whiplash in a 2-vehicle accident on Hayden Lake Road & Windy Point.
  • 9:37 a.m. A trashcan is lying in the e/b lanes of I-90 @ M/P 12 (H95).
  • 9:33 a.m. Women’s Center reports that a female with suitcases in a wheelchair is in front of the Carpet Warehouse on Appleway/CdA.
  • 8:19 a.m. Caller reports that a “suspicious male” may be camping on Tubbs Hill.
  • 8:08 a.m. Sun Meadow Resort/Worley reports finding a male who may have died while camping in his vehicle.
  • 8:03 a.m. Caller reports that a party was held at his neighbor’s house on North Morgan/Hayden last night, and three vehicles remain there this morning. Neighbor is away.
  • 7:48 a.m. Dept. of Motor Vehicles reports wanted person in office.
  • 7:36 a.m. Caller reports that motorists regularly speed and run lights @ Ramsey & Hanley (near Lake City High).

BSU Makes Sports Illustrated Cover

(Caution: this post is not for University of Idaho football fans) Joe Jaszewski, photog extraordinaire for the Idaho Statesman, takes us behind the scenes at the Sports Illustrated football shoot of the Boise State football team a month ago. The Broncos are on the cover of the most recent Sports Illustrated cover. You can read about Joe’s experience here. And see Joe’s photos here.

Question: Will Boise State go undefeated through the regular season again this year?

HBO Poll: Minnick Mailing OK

  • Thursday Poll: 81 of 138 respondents (59%) found no problems w/Congressman Walt Minnick’s use of his franking privileges to inform voters re: the need for an ID at the polls this November. 55 of 138 respondents (40%) said Minnick was wrong to do so. 2 of 138 (1%) were undecided.
  • NI Fair Changes: Only 30 of 104 (30%) agreed with two major changes announced by North Idaho Fair this year — to charge $5 for grandstand events and to allow fair goers to carry beer around the grounds. 29 of 104 disagreed (28%) disagreed w/both changes. 28 of 104 (27%) agreed with the grandstand fee but not the beer change. Another 14 of 104 (13%) agreed with beer change but not grandstand fee. 2 of 104 (2%) were undecided.
  • Weekend Poll (from Lewiston Tribune): Which phrase best describes the typical University of Idaho football fan?

Who’s Winston Churchill? C’mon

On Facebook, SR buddy Doug Floyd, the SR’s Opinion Page editor, writes: “I was feeling old enough before a young (21) woman sat down beside me on the bus and asked about the book I was reading, a biography of Winston Churchill. “Who’s Winston Churchill?” she asked.

Question: Have you had a similar experience to Doug’s?

Venomous Vixens Vs Rollergirls Tonite

Don’t forget tonight’s Roller Derby match between the local Snake Pit Venomous Vixens and Hellgate Rollergirls at Skate Plaza. The game begins at 7 o’clock and costs $7-10 to watch, depending on your age. I’m trying to set up an interview with team contact Kristen Rathbun Binyon, who’s now a Facebook friend. Kristen is the Vixen w/the arm tat second to the right in the second row (above the guy lying down). Individuals go by the following names among others: Mamageddon, Red Mamba, Pix E. Booger, Thumpalina, Low Hit Lola, Honey B, Polly Pocket Rocket, Brandi

Question: What pseudonym would you pick if you played Roller Derby?

Won’t Stop For Signs

Izzit just me, or are more and more drivers failing to stop at stop signs in this town? I was en route to an appointment on Ironwood this morning when I saw two drivers make righthand turns from side streets onto Northwest Boulevard this morning. The first one, a white Tacoma pickup w/a license plate ending in “911” barely slowed down to make the turn from the street just north of Harbor Center. Then, on the north side of the freeway, a red passenger car w/a “6C” plate made a rolling “California stop” at the H95 onramp before entering Northwest Boulevard.

Question: How often do you see drivers in your North Idaho town blowing through stop signs and stoplights?

Luna Wants To Scrap Science Test

Idaho high school students would no longer have to pass a standardized test in science to graduate from high school, under a rule change pushed by state Superintendent of Schools Tom Luna and approved by the state Board of Education yesterday; lawmakers still must sign off on the change, which would take effect with the class of 2013. Luna said it wasn’t an accurate measure of how students are performing in science/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: Should the standardized test in science for graduation be scrapped?

Edgar Steele Wants To See His Wife

A jailed North Idaho lawyer accused of hiring a hitman to kill his wife is asking to see her. According to court documents, Edgar Steele’s attorney requested a federal judge allow Steele “to have a one time supervised visit with Cyndi Steele to take place at the Spokane County Jail.” The documents cite the reason for the visit is to discuss “common property and interests as well as…financial issues related to their children”/KREM. More here.

Question: If you were Steele’s wife, would you want to see him?

KHQ: Kyra Wine Continues To Heal

Last night, KHQ followed Kyra Wine, of St. Maries, to camp and provided this video that shows she is rebounding from the horrible abuse she suffered at the hands of her mother and her horrible boyfriend.

Boise State, NMS, Bans Twitter

New Mexico State coach DeWayne Walker doesn’t see his decision to ban his team from using Twitter this season as an issue about control. For Walker, it’s about protection. “You’ve got 105 guys on your football team,” he said Thursday at the team’s media day. “It’s not a matter of not trusting guys. Guys may say things and do things that can affect not only our football team but our university and not even mean it.” Walker showed he was serious about the ban a short time later, declaring on his Twitter account that he’s finished until December. … Walker’s decision comes after Boise State coach Chris Petersen, pictured, banned Twitter for his players/Associated Press. More here. (AP File Photo: Pat Sullivan)

Question: Are coaches Chris Petersen (Boise State) and DeWayne Walker (New Mexico State) being paranoid by banning players from using Twitter during the season?

AM: Militia Sign Shadows Black Rock

SR photog Jesse Tinsley spotted this sign along Loffs Bay Road while he was shooting photos for John Stucke’s story about Marshall Chesrown and the prestigious Black Rock development. Black Rock neighbor George Mitchell erected the sign in fall 2003. Former SR colleague Erica Curless wrote about the sign a month later. You can read all about it here.

Dr. Laura Apologizes For Using N-word

Talk radio host Dr. Laura Schlessinger has issued an apology for saying the N-word several times during an on-air conversation with a caller this week. “I talk every day about doing the right thing. And yesterday, I did the wrong thing,” Schlessinger said on her radio show Wednesday. “I was attempting to make a philosophical point, and I articulated the N -word all the way out — more than one time. And that was wrong. I’ll say it again — that was wrong.” Schlessinger was referring to a call she got on her show Tuesday from an African-American woman who said she was married to a white man and was getting fed up with her husband allowing his family and friends to say things that she felt were racist/CNN. More here. (AP File Photo/Susan Sterner)

Question: Should there be further repercussions against Schlessinger? Or is her apology sufficient?

APhoto Of The Day — 8.13.10

Annwyne Stanish walks ” Hop Along ” the little blue  penguin along Rothesay Bay beach, near Auckland, New Zealand, Thursday. The  penguin  was washed up on Muriwai Beach suffering from head and leg injuries and was nursed back to health by a bird rescue volunteer Sylvia Durrant and Annwyne Stanish. You write the cutline. (AP Photo/Brett Phibbs/New Zealand Herald )

Chesrown Gives Up On Black Rock

Marshall Chesrown has surrendered ownership of his landmark Club at Black Rock luxury golf and housing development above Lake Coeur d’Alene amid the ongoing collapse of high-end real estate in North Idaho. Washington Trust, a privately held Spokane bank, filed public records in Kootenai County this week taking the deeds from Chesrown in lieu of foreclosure. The bank listed four loans totaling $12.5 million in its filing. Bank President Jack Heath could not be reached for comment Thursday afternoon. The action is the latest setback for Chesrown, who embarked on ambitious projects that catered to the wealthy/John Stucke, SR. More here. (SR Photo: Jesse Tinsley)

Question: Is there a warning here for developers who want to build exclusive subdivisions around North Idaho lakes? And to the communities who are asked to annex or suppor them?

TJR: Bryan Fischer Still Makes Waves

I confess that I hadn’t been following all that closely the controversy in New York City over the proposed construction of a Muslim cultural center not far from the site of the September 11 attack. Until, that is, I saw an item featuring the former Idaho fire brand, Bryan Fischer, suggesting that the country ought not allow the construction of another Mosque, ever, anywhere, at anytime. … It was his latest column that grabbed my attention. Here’s the first graph: “Permits should not be granted to build even one more mosque in the United States of America, let alone the monstrosity planned for Ground Zero. This is for one simple reason: each Islamic mosque is dedicated to the overthrow of the American government.” OK then/Marc Johnson, The Johnson Report. More here.

Question: Should New York City allow the construction of a Muslim cultural center near the site of the 9/11 attacks?

Cis: Planning For Future, Sorta

One of the things on the agenda when you get to be 70 is the line up things, to make it easier for your family. Meaning like wills, trust funds, even funerals. I don’t think there is any way to make it go smoothly. As death and funerals are like weddings, if anything can go wrong, it will. But at least I can try to have some things lined up. So I decided to start. One of the hard things is, find a lawyer that you like and trust. Which isn’t as easy as it sounds. As there are different lawyers for different needs. And to me, I have to at least like this person, besides trust them. I want to know what my options are, then have them tell me how to do what I want to do legally. So someone can’t reverse what my wishes are/Cis, From A Simple Mind. More here.

Question: Do you have a will, a lawyer, and other things lined up for your family, in case you kick the bucket?

P.S. Artwalk To Feature Lantzy Work

On her Idaho Scenic Images Facebook page, photographer Linda Lantzy writes re: this photo: ” If you guys had any idea what I go through for some of these shots…As usual tonight I was racing the sun, waded through loads of thistle plants, tumbled down the river bank, stopped inches from a very large splash in the river. Only got off a few shots before the sun was gone. Now I must excuse myself to go remove a few thorns.” Linda’s work will be displayed at Angel Gallery tomorrow night as part of the downtown’s monthly Artwalk.

Venomous Vixens Wild Card — 8.12.10

I can’t decide which coming event to promote today. So I’ll promote all three of them. Coeur d’Alene police are sponsoring another movie night in City Park Saturday, featuring “Charlotte’s Web.” You can read all about it here. Tonight, Riverstone Park will be the scene of another free concert, beginning at 6, featuring Diana Clemons classical viola, fiddle, & piano. On Thursday night, the Snake Pit’s Venomous Vixens are squaring off with the Hellgate Rollergirls in a roller derby match at Skate Plaza. Here’s the hype of Facebook: “Will the Venomous Vixens douse the acrid inferno with their toxic venom? Or will the gates of hell close in upon the snakes rendering them soulless minions?” Now that those PSAs are out of the way, here’s your Wild Card …

Landlord Boots Coeur d’Alene Brewing

Item: Landlord gives Coeur d’Alene Brewing walking papers/Tania Dall, KXLY

More Info: After 23 years a popular brewery in Coeur d’Alene is in search of a new home and it’s not by their choice. The Coeur d’Alene Brewing Company, which was featured in early June in a KXLY Manufacturing Monday episode, says its lease has been terminated and where the business will move now remains up in the air.Right now the brewing company sits in the heart of downtown Coeur d’Alene but according to the company’s Facebook page, the current landlord has other plans for the property on Lakeside Avenue.

Question: What do you make of this move?

APhoto Of The Day — 8.12.10

Rose Bellini, 9, gets a cool spray from a water-misting fan in uptown Charlotte, N.C. Wednesday. The fans were set up in a courtyard to bring much needed relief to folks trying to escape the sweltering temperature. You write the cutline. (AP Photo/The Charlotte Observer, Todd Sumlin)

Top Cutlines:

  • 1. When Rose told her parents she was fanned by some mister, they called the police to look for the perv — JohnA.
  • 2. Introducing Dakota’s little sister, Carolina Fanning — Nic.
  • 3. A fan of fan fanning — Herb Huseland
  • HM: JeanieS

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.12.10

  • 6:11 p.m. Juvenile is jumping off bridge into water at Qemiln Park/Post Falls.
  • 6 p.m. Caller reports that a neighbor cursed him as he rode by on his tractor, on Parks Road/Athol.
  • 5:24 p.m. Motorist reports that a male looking over Seltice Way/Post Falls bridge to I-90 appears to be ready to drop something.
  • 5:12 p.m. A possible structure fire is reported at 335 E. Tiger/Post Falls.
  • 4:53 p.m. Caller reports a possible illegal burn in 16500 block of Sitka/Rathdrum.
  • 4:52 p.m. A semi truck has hit a barrier on I-90 near 4th Street exit/CdA.
  • 4:38 p.m. Female reports that juveniles in a 1994 silver Mazda (registered in Post Falls) sprayed her w/water as they passed in the 3rd Street lot/CdA.
  • 4:28 p.m. Caller is concerned re: a male w/a shaved head who is sitting on a bench @ Finucane Park/Hayden, looking at children.
  • 4:22 p.m. A CPD Blue is trying to stop a motorist in a stolen vehicle @ 15th & Locust.
  • 3:51 p.m. Officer requests medical help for a juvenile male who cut his foot open on the west side of the point on Tubbs Hill.
  • More below

Venomous Vixen Ready To Roll

Is this a cool flyer or what? I got the OK from Kristen Rathbun Binyon of the Snake Pit Venomous Vixen, the local Roller Derby team, to publish their poster for the 7 o’clock showdown with the Hellgate Rollergirls at Skate Plaza. Entrance costs $7-10.

Question: Have you ever watched a Roller Derby match?

CPD Blue Can’t Catch ‘Jackrabbit’

A Coeur d’Alene man wanted since January on an assault charge is being targeted by Crime Stoppers after eluding police at least twice recently. Adam Sabastian HIll, 38, “jackrabbits from us every time we get near him,” said Sgt. Christie Wood, spokeswoman for the Coeur d’Alene Police Department. Hill missed a hearing for an assault charge in January, according to court records. Police recently chased him around the Fruitland Lane area, then tried catching him near Appleway Avenue a couple weeks ago, Wood said. Hill got away each time/Meghann M. Cuniff, Sirens & Gavels. More here

Question: Do you think Police Chief Wayne Longo can run this guy down?

KXLY: Valley Synagogue Hit w/Swastika

In Spokane Valley the Kehilat HaMashiach Synagogue was vandalized Sunday when someone smeared their sign with a red swastika.Four days later a white cloth covers the symbol but the congregation of the synagogue know all too well the meaning behind the symbol. They says they want to bring attention to this because they want people to know this type of hatred is still going on in our community.Like pulling off a bandage covering a painful wound congregation leader David D’Auria unveils the swastika left on the sign of his synagogue.“I was shocked, surprised and concerned,” he said.D’Auria discovered the marking Sunday morning.“This is a hate crime; an act of hate against Jewish people,” he said/Tania Dall, KXLY. More here.

CdA Mulls Raises For City Workers

On its Web site this afternoon, the Coeur d’Alene Press is reporting that the City Council has heard little feedback re: a proposal to give raises to city employees, while asking for a raise in property taxes. The Press quotes Councilman Woody McEvers as saying that he’s ‘frustrated’ by trying to balance the law and his gut feeling. The city is facing a contracted 3 percent COLA increase with its unions. Last year, writes the Press, the city negotiated a proposed increase down to zero, and to 1 percent this year. More here.

Question: What should the city do?

NIdaho Blogosphere — 8.12.10

The sign on this rusting bucket of bolts says: “Idaho or bust.” Cis posted it on her From A Simple Mind blog and said: “Sometimes you just have to stop and take a picture.”

HBO Numbers (for Aug. 11): 8583/5177

Fair Adds Fees, Beer Walkabouts

In the Coeur d’Alene Press today, Maureen Dolan reports that the North Idaho Fair & Rodeo has made two significant changes to raise more money. For the first time, the fair will charge a $5 admission fee to the grandstands for the rodeo, motocross and demolition derby events. Also, the fair will allow visitors to walk about the grounds carrying beer. More here.

Question: Do you approve of the change by North Idaho Fair officials to charge $5 for admission to the grandstands for events — and to allow visitors to walk around the fairgrounds w/beer?

The Way We Were: Fish Inn

On his Get Out! North Idaho Facebook page, OrangeTV offers this 1986 photo of the old Fish Inn and a mobile home at Wolf Lodge (via his old Remember the Roxy Web site). And a reader responded that she had fond memories of the Fish Inn. My top memory involves a hot day in which I was coaxed into judging a chili contest with more than 30 entries. After the first dozen or so, I couldn’t tell one from the other — and thought I was going to pass out from the heat in the small, confined area I shared with 4 or 5 other judges.

Question: Any fond memories of the old Fish Inn?

Catholic Charities Calls Off Roast

Catholic Charities of Idaho has called off a roast of the four major candidates for Governor and the 1st District House seat because of what it called a threat from independent gubernatorial candidate Jana Kemp (pictured). Kemp said the popular annual “Loaves and Fishes” fundraiser, is a “prohibited activity” for a non-profit. The group, which provides social services to people of all religions, said it would postpone the Sept. 10 fundraiser until it can resolve the issue. “As my team reads the code, you all seem to be placing yourselves in a position of losing your non-profit status, which was just gained in 2000,” Kemp said in an e-mail, obtained by the Idaho Statesman. “All I did was ask a question. I made no threat,” Kemp said in an interview Wednesday/Rocky Barker, Idaho Statesman. More here.

Question: Is it time for Independent gubernatorial candidate Jana Kemp to back off?

 

Cis: Can’t Turn Back Time, Embrace it

On her Facebook page, Cis offers this double dollop of wisdom: “Some people try to turn back their odometers. Not me, I want people to know “why” I look this way. I’ve traveled a long way and some of the roads weren’t paved.”

Question: Have you tried to turn back your personal odometer or do you appreciate the mileage you’ve put on your chassis?

NYTimes: Minnick Not An Easy Target

At least a handful of Democrats in the 40 districts are no longer considered to be as vulnerable as Republicans had hoped, largely because their preferred candidates were defeated by more conservative candidates in primaries. Representatives Jason Altmire of Pennsylvania, Walt Minnick of Idaho and Zack Space of Ohio are among the Democrats no longer seen by Republicans as easy targets/Jeff Zeleny, New York Times. More here.

Question: Will the conservatives help Democrats hold Congress by succeeding in nominating right-wing Republican candidates who don’t appeal to the general population?

Johnson: Montanta Deals w/Tax Cheats

For as long as I can remember Idaho has had a running debate about whether to really invest in a robust program of tax compliance in the interest of finding those individuals and businesses who, through villainy or ignorance, don’t do what the vast majority of us do - pay our taxes. Historically the Idaho response has been to not make it a public or budgetary priority to go after the tax scofflaws. A modest investment was made in the Idaho compliance effort this year, but what was done also suggests there will be a modest payoff. Montana does it differently. Gov. Brian Schweitzer made national headlines last week when he announced that tax audits and other compliance efforts in Montana have produced $80 million in new revenue this year/Marc Johnson, The Johnson Report. More here.

Question: Why does revenue-strapped Idaho allow tax cheats when Montana doesn’t?

Review: Dylan, Mellencamp Rock Billings

Looking dapper in a black suit and white broad-brimmed hat, Bob Dylan came out and sang to the crowd at Dehler Park on Wednesday night that “everybody must get stoned.” Some folks had already gotten a head start, and clouds of smoke drifted over the stage as Dylan sang his opening number. Smiling like a man with some secrets up his sleeve, Dylan and his amazing five-piece band surged through a lineup of hits that included “Like a Rolling Stone,” “Working Man Blues” and “Highway 61 Revisited”/Jaci Webb, Billings Gazette. More here.

Question: Do you have tickets to see Bob Dylan and John Cougar Mellencamp at their Sept. 1 concert at the Greyhound Park in Post Falls?

INW Headlines — 8.12.10

An emu, one of the Montana Emu Ranch Company’s breeding stock, makes low drumming noises as it wanders a pen at the ranch west of Kalispell, Mont., recently. What was a necessity for the Australian Aborigines has never caught on in this country. Story here. (AP Photo/Flathead Beacon, Lido Vizzutti)

High Noon: Convertible Gets Invite

Auto restorer Glenn Vaughn, of Post Falls, walks around the 1929 Packard convertible that his shop restored for owner Richard Comstock. The car is close enough to perfect that it was invited to the prestigious Pebble Beach car show. Alison Boggs’ SR story here. (SR Photo: Jesse Tinsley)

Question: Have you ever owned a convertible? What became of it?

Longo Chased Down This Sweetheart

Re: Police Chief Longo runs down grand theft suspect/HucksOnline

(Daniel W.) Bisher, pictured, had a loaded .40 caliber Glock handgun in his jacket and a knife in his pants pocket, as well as methamphetamine. The gun had been reported stolen in Coeur d’Alene; the motorcycle had been stolen from Spokane, police said. Coeur d’Alene police Capt. Steve Childers called Longo “a street partolman at heart.” Department spokeswoman Sgt. Christie Wood said Longo always monitors his police scanner and frequently backs up patrol officers. Bisher has a criminal history that includes a pending felony charge in Spokane County of second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm. Police said he lives in Spokane, but newspaper archives show he’s also lived in Coeur d’Alene, Spirit Lake and Rathdrum/Meghann M. Cuniff, Sirens & Gavels. More here.

Question: Are you in good enough shape to chase down a criminal?

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.12.10

  • 11:58 a.m. Driver of a gray Bronco has continued e/b on Appleway after hitting a Pontiac Grand Am @ H95 & Appleway. Bronco was pushed up onto sidewalk.
  • 11:20 a.m. Driver and passengers in vehicle that hit a dog (unknown location) are trying to leave scene, now that police are on the way.
  • 11:06 a.m. ITD worker warns that a “Road Work Ahead” sign has fallen off its perch near a Highway 95 construction site.
  • 10:40 a.m. A friend wants officers to check on a female whose boyfriend took her dog when they broke up.
  • 10:10 a.m. Donald is at KCSD to report a stolen canoe from Coeur d’Alene River.
  • 9:46 a.m. Caller reports that a motorist flipped him off and tossed something out of vehicle that broke his window e/b on I-90 @ M/P 12 (Highway 95).
  • 9:41 a.m. F&G has been notified re: dead deer lying along Hanley & Ramsey/CdA.
  • 9:36 a.m. Kirk believes that wave action from speeding boats caused floats on his float house @ McDonalds Resort @ Bayview to float away.
  • 9:04 a.m. A driver seeking a short cut across the Coeur d’Alene Casino property is now stuck in a field and in need of a tow.
  • 8:42 a.m. EMTs are responding to a report of a male lying under a porch after falling, on Upper Granite Loop/Athol area.
  • 8:35 a.m. Female, on Sunnyside/CdA, reports that a neighbor’s dogs chased her husband this morning. The neighbor has been cited for a similar incident before.
  • 8:34 a.m. Jonathan knows location of possible stolen items.
  • 8:30 a.m. Motorist reports that drive of gold VW Jetta tossed a lit cigarette out his window as he was entering Rathdrum on H41.
  • 8:21 a.m. A Coeur d’Alene male is having an allergic reaction after trying to rid drugs from his system in preparation for a drug test today.
  • 8:14 a.m. Victim of a hit-and-run accident on Spokane River bridge/CdA is following “run vehicle” — a blue 2002 Saturn driven by a female, now @ Northwest & Lakewood.

HBO Poll: No To Automatic Citizenship

  • Wednesday Poll: By a slim margin, HucksOnline readers don’t believe in the 14th Amendment provision that bestows citizenship automatically on everyone born in the United States. 105 of 213 (49%) didn’t support automatic citizenship. 102 of 213 (48%) did support automatic citizenship. 6 of 213 (3%) were undecided.
  • Hydroplane Fund-raiser: 36 of 72 (50% exactly) voted that the North Idaho Museum fund-raiser involving the appearance of vintage hydroplanes is a back-door attempt by some to resurrect the races. 24 of 72 (33%) contended that it’s strictly a fund-raiser with no ulterior motives. 12 of 17 (17%) were undecided.
  • Today’s Poll: Is it OK for Walt Minnick to use his franking privileges to warn voters re: need for ID at polls in November?

Vogue Shoot: Tasteless? Provocative?

This image provided by Steven Meisel for  Vogue Italia shows an image from the August issue of  Vogue  Italia featuring Kristen McMenamy. The issue includes a photo spread shot by Steven Meisel titled “Water & Oil”. Read story re: controversy ignited by magazine article by Lisa Orkin for Vogue Italia here. (AP Photo/ Vogue Italia, Steven Meisel)

Question: Did the artist succeed in creating beauty out of tragedy of the Gulf Coast oil spill? Or is the image above — and others provided by the link above — insensitive, as some maintain?

Pita Pit To Open In Sandpoint

At the Bonner County Bee, Ralph Bartholdt is reporting that Jeff and Tasha Walker plan to open a Pita Pit restaurant by Labor Day on the corner of First Avenue and Bridge Street. The couple, who purchased the franchise in February, face major reconstruction first. More here.

Question: Do you eat at the Coeur d’Alene Pita Pit often?

Realtors Back Minnick, Crapo, Simpson

The Idaho Association of Realtors has announced its endorsement of the re-election bids of Idaho Congressmen Walt Minnick and Mike Simpson and Sen. Mike Crapo. Julie DeLorenzo, the group’s president, said, “Our congressional delegation has consistently demonstrated their pro-business, pro-private property rights beliefs in Congress. These three individuals are a tremendous asset to the State of Idaho, and the IAR enthusiastically supports their re-election this November”/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: Do you think the Idaho delegation as a whole is effective?

MikeK: ‘Humorless’ Kemp Not Needed

Re: Jana Kemp miffed at City Club of Boise debate snub/Dustin Hurst, Idaho Reporter

Mike Kennedy: “(Independent gubernatorial candidate Jana Kemp has) also personally directly threatened the non-profit status of Catholic Charities of Idaho, on whose board I served for nine years until last month, because a fundraising event we’ve held for several years to poke fun at politicians (and they at themselves) did not include the independent candidates. I was one of the committee that put on the first event, and it has become a fun and spirited dinner. Until a humorless politician threatened our tax status, that is. She has no case, but my former colleagues on the board will be rightfully concerned about involving the agency in some sort of politically inspired lawsuit to have to spend money defending. Unbelievable. If the CCI event does ultimately get canceled, I hope Ms. Kemp is willing to personally contribute approximately $40,000 to replace the funds that would have been raised and provided to needy Idahoans. And she wants to be Governor? Really?

Question: Do you appreciate a sense of humor in a politician?

Las Vegas Paper Sues More Web Sites

The legal thug hired by the Las Vegas Review-Journal is at it again, suing eight more Web sites that used newspaper material without permission. But this time the newspaper may have met its match. A site named EMT City has decided to fight back in court. EMT City is being sued because — take note of this — a commenter cut-and-pasted Las Vegas Review-Journal material onto the Web site. The administrator said: “I was offered to settle this case out of court but have decided to fight the case on the principal that I did not cause the alleged violation and that websites should not be held accountable for the actions of a third party.” The administrator goes on to say that there is no case law of yet in this type of situation, and “I am going forward to hopefully create case law to protect this site, and all other forums on the internet.” The administrator hopes to raise $10,000 to help in the legal fight. More here.

Question: What do you make of the actions by the Las Vegas Review-Journal to sue small bloggers for using its material and then offering to settle out of court?

AM Headlines — 8.12.10

“After nearly two weeks on location in Montana and North Dakota, we’re happy to be back home again,” posts Kerri Thoreson/OnLocation North Idaho. “My husband, Bert and our dog, Annie celebrate at Exit O atop Lookout Pass at the Idaho/Montana state line. In the ten minutes or so we were there at the Idaho sign we visited with families from Illinois, Kansas, Nevada and California, who had also stopped to get a photo. For most of them it was their first time to see our state and I must say that the view from there is a great introduction to Idaho.”

Question: I felt the same way as Kerri did Monday when we returned from a two-week trip to northern California. Not only were we greeted by the “Welcome to Idaho” sign (at Stateline), but we encountered wonderfully cooler weather. How much to you enjoy returning home to the Inland Northwest after a long trip?

Jana Kemp Miffed @ Debate Snub

The City Club of Boise, an organization dedicated to bringing debate and civics discussions to the people of the Treasure Valley, is holding a debate between Republican Butch Otter and Democrat Keith Allred, two men vying to be Idaho’s next governor, and one lesser-known candidate is miffed at being snubbed by the group.  Jana Kemp, an Independent candidate from Garden City, says the group should include all people in the running for the office.  The group says that a Rasmussen poll helped determine who would appear at the event, but documentation obtained by IdahoReporter.com suggests that other reasons might have been behind the decision/Dustin Hurst, Idaho Reporter. More here.

Question: Should Independent Jana Kemp by invited to gubernatorial debates?

Gay Idaho Officer Sues To Keep Job

Item: Gay Idaho Air Force officer sues to keep job: Victor Fehrenbach, based in Mountain Home, seeks to block his dismissal and overturn the ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy/Dan Popkey, Idaho Statesman

More Info: Lt. Col. Victor Fehrenbach turned to a federal court in Boise on Wednesday, seeking to strike down the 1993 law that mandates the military policy. Fehrenbach, with 19 years in the Air Force, learned last week that the Air Force Personnel Board recommended his discharge to Air Force Secretary Michael Donley. His lawsuit says his admission of homosexual conduct was obtained under “coercive circumstances” and that he spoke to clear himself of false allegations of rape.

Question: Do you support the current “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy in the military?

Christie: Chief Difficult To Promote

Item: Police chief Longo runs down suspect/DFO, HucksOnline

Christie Wood: I could tell you about several instances of the Chief literally savings lives on duty (CPR and Heimlich, as well as backing up officers, the rescue of fellow officers at Ruby Ridge, life saving efforts for his dear friend Linda Huff etc.) but he is very difficult to promote. He does not like to grand stand in any way. I normally have to talk him into these type of press releases. He is not a braggart because he understands very well the duties of a police officer, and he carries them out without fanfare. We are very proud of him, and most importantly we know he is there to back us up when the situation turns deadly.

Question: Would you rather Chief Longo risk his life occasionally to help apprehend a dangerous suspect? Or is he too valuable to the community to take such risks?

Bloglander: Where’s Jason Kadah?

KREM weatherman Jason Kadah, who developed a fan base with his quirky humor, was yanked off the air more than two months ago — yet the storm around his sudden and unexplained departure seems to be gaining momentum. Kadah fans have started two Facebook pages — “Jason Kadah Rocks” and “Keep Jason in Spokane” — where they speculate about his departure, mourn the loss of his off-beat humor in the mornings and post updates on his latest movements. A post from July 26 reads, “Where [oh] Where is my favorite weatherman? I wonder if he was at Skyfest…” And then, on Aug. 2: “Has anyone seen Jason around Spokane?”/Jacob Fries, Bloglander (Inlander Blog). More here. (Bloglander photo)

Question: Legal issues generally prevent an employer from discussing a former worker’s departure. But do you think the media owes readers/listeners/viewer some explanation why a personality is no longer doing his/her job?

P.S. Dylan, Mellencamp Crews Set Up

Local stagehand Shawn Reed holds on to tarps as winds start to gust while assembling the outdoor stage for the upcoming  Bob  Dylan  and John Mellencamp concert at Mike Lansing Field on Wednesday afternoon in Casper, Wyo. The stage takes roughly 8-hours to build by a mix of traveling and local crews.  Bob  Dylan and his band are performing at minor league ballparks during his most recent tour. The two singers will perform at the Greyhound Park in Post Falls Sept. 1. (AP Photo/Star-Tribune, Dan Cepeda)

Question: Who are the best singers today?

Hobo Spider Wild Card — 8.11.10

As you can say by the post below, ‘tis the season that hobo spiders get horny and move indoors. I don’t mind those critters in the garden. But they make me jump once they move inside. I’ve had one race toward me while I was in the garage lifting weights. Mebbe this year’s the one I’ll finally get around to buying spider traps. But enuf about spiders. Here’s your Wild Card …

Police Chief Longo Runs Down Suspect

Coeur d’Alene Police Chief Wayne Longo’s passion for running paid off Tuesday when he helped officer Hank Dunham chase down a grand theft suspect in a foot race that began at the Tire Rama on Appleway. The suspect Daniel W. Bisher, 35, from Spokane, was taken into custody by Longo and Dunham after fleeing on foot from Tire Rama, then south on Government Way, through a vacant field, and then to Carl Jr’s. He was captured at the Hastings parking lot entrance. Twice, Bisher stopped and appeared to reach into the front of his jacket (where he had a Glock pistol) while ignoring Chief Longo’s commands, yelling that “he was not going to jail.” Bisher ran again when Longo pulled his own gun. Bisher took off running again toward Appleway where Dunham and Longo apprehended him. More here. Info provided to HucksOnline by CPD spokeswoman Christie Wood.

Question: Wouldn’t it be safe to say that our police chief is faster than almost anyone else’s?

PM Headlines — 8.11.10

At the KEA Blog, intern Trevor Frank reviews the non-water, quiet recreation at the Nature Conservancy’s Cougar Bay Preserve. Story here.

Whazzup With KVNI?

So what is happening at KVNI. When I left on vacation 2 weeks ago, KXLY jumbos were planning to meet to discuss best way to proceed after Lukenses were sent packing. Have they announced a new broadcast team? Has Kerri Thoreson been hired? Inquiring minds want to know.

APhoto Of The Day — 8.11.10

New Beginnings  Church members leave after services while Foxhole strip club dancers  protest in front of the New Beginnings  Church in Warsaw, Ohio, Sunday. A central Ohio strip club owner who grew tired of a  church’s  protests outside his club is leading his own  protests of the  church with the help of some of his club’s bikini-clad dancers. You write the cutline. (AP Photo/Columbus Dispatch, Kyle Robertson)

Top Cutlines:

  • 1. Pastor: “You girls need to get to know our Lord…”
    Bambi: “We do. We even call him by name: Andy”
    Pastor: “The Lord’s name isn’t ‘Andy’, you idiots”.
    Bambi: “Yes, it is, you know, from the song, stupid: ‘Andy walks with me, Andy talks with me…’” — JohnA.
  • 2. Chuck tried not to look her way as he exited the building, because only Desiree knew why he was unable to tithe his usual 10 percent when the plate passed that morning — Brent Andrews.
  • 3. Stripper, talking to the others; “When Pastor Lyons invited us to church services the other day, I didn’t realize that we wouldn’t be able to get in until after church services” — Kage Mann.
  • HM: CoeurGenX

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.11.10

  • 5:37 p.m. Caller reports that a neighbor wants to shoot a hawk @ an E. Maplewood/Post Falls mobile home park
  • 5:20 p.m. ISP officer is calling for an ambulance to handle a rollover on w/b I-90 b/n 15th & Sherman Avenue that’s blocking traffic. Officer wants traffic routed down Sherman.
  • 5:05 p.m. A 5-foot-6, middle-age male w/a backpack was seen checking car doors in 3rd Street parking lot/CdA and ran off when confronted.
  • 4:53 p.m. ISP officer announces that e/b traffic on I-90 is about to reopen.
  • 4:50 p.m. Vehicles are illegally using the crossover on I-90 @ M/P 5 (near Spokane Street) to get around jam caused by 4:03 p.m. crash at Huettere.
  • 4:24 p.m. ISP officers are requesting that e/b traffic be diverted onto H41 and up Seltice Way to relieve jam caused by 4-vehicle crash at Huetter.
  • 4:04 p.m. Coldstone Creamery/Riverstone reports a person has been hurt in a fall.
  • 4:03 p.m. ISP officer is investigating a 4-vehicle, non-injury crash on e/b I-90 @ Huetter.
  • 4:01 p.m. Driver reports that an unknown male punched his vehicle while he was driving on Quail Run Boulevard/Post Falls.
  • More below

Minnick Donates Miles To Baker’s Widow

U.S. Rep. Walt Minnick is donating his frequent flyer miles to the widow of Medal of Honor recipient Vernon Baker so she can attend his burial at Arlington National Cemetery. Baker, who belatedly received the nation’s highest military award for his role in World War II, was 90 when he died at his home near St. Maries in northern Idaho last month. Baker’s wife, Heidi, recently told reporters the family could not afford to travel to Virginia for his ceremonial burial/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

JimmyMac: ‘We’re Pregnant’!

JimmyMac: After three years of trying with the Mrs to get pregnant, countless trips to doctors both in Coeur d Alene and Spokane, two in vitro cycles this year in March and June - we are PREGNANT! It has been a long and difficult ride and we actually got the good news a few weeks back but we were finally discharged by our Spokane specialist yesterday and I wanted to drop a quick line. We have made approximately 50 trip this year driving to to Spokane and back at 6:00 am every morning, each time with my wife having to have blood taken. I have counted some 98 injections that I have given the wife wife during this past in vitro cycle alone. (Full comment at 11:31 a.m. under Wild Card thread)

Question: Can you remember how you learned that your first baby was on the way?

Festival At Sandpoint’s Cool Design

Check out artist Grant Nixon’s cool 2010 crew shirt design for the Festival at Sandpoint. And more festival photos from the Festival at Sandpoint Facebook page here.

Question: Which annual events in the Inland Northwest offer the best event designs?

Agency: Idaho Guv Race ‘Solid GOP’

A national polling agency weighed in on the Idaho gubernatorial race Tuesday and things are looking up for Gov. Butch Otter.  Rasmussen Reports, one of the major political polling agencies in the United States, said that the race between Republican Otter and Democratic challenger Keith Allred is rated as “Solid GOP.” The most recent polling figures for the Idaho contest, released July 21, showed Otter ahead by 17 points, down from the 22-point lead he  enjoyed in May/Dustin Hurst, Idaho Reporter. More here.

Question: How can Keith Allred gain momentum in Republican Idaho?

ID Blogs: Remembering Ted Stevens

Ted Stevens was tough on environmentalists and those who dared to cross him. He was a champion of the earmark back before speaking ill of federal appropriations became a litmus test for every politician. By one count, Stevens had a hand in nearly 1,500 earmarks over his Senate career worth more than $3.4 billion. Like his friend the late Robert Byrd, Stevens came to the Senate to take care of his state and that meant appropriating money for projects back home/Marc Johnson, The Johnson Report. More here.

Question: Should a state’s U.S. senators and representatives try to bring back as much pork as possible, as Ted Stevens did?

Where Have All The Porta-Potties Gone?

Howard Martinson: So, the only two 24/7 porta potties in town are at Riverstone and at Fresh Start. They City seems to lock up all the others. What’s a guy to do when nature urgently calls? If they’re discrete (while urinating publically), leave ‘em alone.

Question: I recently attended Portland’s version of Pig Out in the Park on the Willamette. A young female with my party initially refused to use the porta-potties at the event, complaining about cleanliness, smells, and being forced to look at a men’s urinal while doing her business. Do you balk at using outhouses (in campgrounds) or porta-potties?

Linda Lantzy’s Pre-Storm Color

Linda Lantzy/Idaho Scenic Images has posted a number of new photos from around the Inland Northwest on her blog, including the one above, which she labels as “Pre-storm color on the Spokane River.” The entire posting is titled, “A very wet spring.”

TFTN: Mixed Report On Right To Work

But what’s been the economic impact of 25 years of Right to Work? Depends on whom you ask. For starters, union membership has shrunk from 12 percent of the Idaho workforce in 1985 to 6 percent today. Partly as a consequence, Idaho wages have declined from 84 percent of the national average in 1985 to 75 percent before the beginning of the Great Recession. But it would be naïve to suggest that Right to Work wasn’t a major factor in Idaho’s explosive job growth from 1986 through 2008. Start-ups, small businesses and tech — enterprises that sort badly with union rules — thrived. Equally important, Right to Work served to stabilize the labor market. And companies like Dell simply wouldn’t have come to Idaho if they had to deal with union shops/Twin Falls Times-News. More here. (Dennis Mansfield’s analysis of Right to Work impact here.)

Question: Has Idaho’s Right To Work law helped or hurt Idaho in the 25 years it has been in force?

Crump: Americans Don’t Vacation Well

It’s high summer in Paris, and nobody’s home. France essentially closes down in August because the French are the most dedicated vacationers in the world. As a nation, they take 89 percent of the time off to which they’re entitled — and every full-time French worker is guaranteed at least five weeks a year. There are a dozen public holidays besides. Americans use just 57 percent of their allotted vacation, and they’re not happy about the time off they do take, a Conference Board survey found earlier this year. What does it all mean? Simply this: The French are the New York Yankees of vacationers; we’re the Kansas City Royals. Think otherwise? Been to Disneyland recently?/Steve Crump, Twin Falls Times-News. More here.

Question: Do you know how to vacation well?

Crapo Rival Returning To Cda Roots

Former Coeur d’Alene restaurant owner Tom Sullivan, now an eastern Idaho resident and a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate, will return to his former establishment in North Idaho on Friday for a free campaign benefit concert featuring Too Slim and the Taildraggers. The former Tubbs Cafe at 313 Coeur d’Alene Lake Drive is now O’Shays, where the concert will take place in the beer garden. “It’s a wonderful place that we have a lot of very fond memories from,” Sullivan said. “We hope that people will contribute to the campaign, but it’s a free concert”/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: In his background, Sullivan has a bankruptcy from his former Coeur d’Alene restaurant, owes the IRS $150K in back taxes, and has never run for office. But I give him credit for paying down his IRS debt from $600K (unlike an Athol legislator who will remain nameless). Anything else about Sullivan that you like?

INW: Big Drums Heading For Billings

Several workmen prepare for transport to a Conoco-Phillips refinery in Billings, Mont., from the Port of Lewiston Monday. Each load will contain half a drum that will be assembled on site. Archives: Billings Gazette story here. (AP Photo/Lewiston Tribune, Barry Kough)

High Noon: Fed Up With Racism

I was born in Chicago, a town with its own long history of racial tension, and my parents were hillbillies, one from Texas and one from Tennessee. It would not be surprising to many to learn that my upbringing was steeped in racism, yet it wasn’t—somehow my parents managed to raise their children to be almost color blind. When my little ‘sister’ Chrissie went to kindergarten, she came home quite irate, asking “Why didn’t you ever tell me that black people were different than us?,”—a  ‘knowledge’ that had apparently been shared with her by either her teachers or her classmates/Trish Gannon, River Journal (Politically Incorrect column). More here. (River Journal photo of Trish’s niece & nephew)

DFO: I was delighted during my recent vacation to California to meet my two Ethiopian nieces, Marte & Buzai, for the first time since their adoption by my nephew Josh and his wife, Heather. I guess this means my full-blooded Portuguese family is wonderfully integrated now.

Question: Were you raised color-blind?

Labrador Denounces Reid Comments

Earlier this week, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nevada, said he couldn’t see how anyone of Hispanic heritage could be a Republican. (CBS News story here.) Today, Raul Labrador, the Puerto Rico-born Republican who is seeking to unseat Democrat Walt Minnick in Idaho’s 1st Congressional District race, fired back: “I cannot believe an elected leader of Harry Reid’s stature can continue to make racist comments about huge numbers of Americans. Harry Reid’s latest race-baited comments are simply unacceptable to all members of the Hispanic community. Denigrating the entire Republican Hispanic community, including myself, is simply outrageous. Contrary to Senator Reid’s beliefs, the Latino community is perfectly capable of making choices of political affiliation that are in its best interests, including being Republicans.” More from Labrador.

Question: Do you see anything wrong with Reid’s remark?

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.11.10

  • 11:57 a.m. Motorist reports that a bicyclist is weaving into traffic as he pedals e/b on Hayden from Ramsey Road.
  • 11:53 a.m. Rescuers report they’ve gotten lost hikers in Nettleton Gulch headed in right direction, via cell phone directions.
  • 11:52 a.m. Hagadone Hospitality security wants to see an officer re: strong smell of marijuana coming from motorhome w/Oregon ploates parked behind Bonzai Bistro.
  • 11:39 a.m. Several hikers are lost in the Nettleton Gulch area after leaving their RAV-4 at a trailhead. They report via cell phone that they are w/o food or water and have been walking for two hours w/sun to their backs. They now can see buildings.
  • 11:32 a.m. Caller reports an animal bite @ 1808 Hastings/CdA.
  • 11:28 a.m. Angry male (from 10:47 a.m. entry) is now spray-painting over a sign that says “trash” near Homestead Restaurant/Worley.
  • 11:07 a.m. A goat picked up by Post Falls animal control last night and now held at the animal shelter matches the description of one sought by a caller.
  • 10:47 a.m. A male is throwing bricks and garbage cans at H95 vehicles passing Worley Post Office & Homestead Restaurant. He’s also yelling profanity & writing on business walls.
  • 10:10 a.m. A female of about 15 or 16 years old, with a checkered jacket wrapped around her waist and a suitcase, is hitchhiking along I-90 @ H41.
  • 10:04 a.m. Caller reports that a male in a pickup who had been staying at a previously vacant trailer on Granite Loop has gone, leaving his dog behind.
  • 9:45 a.m. A logging truck and a mini-van have crashed on H6 @ M/P 25 (Willow Creek Road, along White Pine Trail, near St. Maries).
  • 8:34 a.m. A belligerent driver in a Dodge pickup, pulling a 24-foot boat, sped through an inspection station, failing to stop, on I-90 @ M/P 31 (Fourth of July Creek).

Hydros Returning To Lake For Benefit

The (1st annual Diamond Cup Regatta) will be Aug. 20-22 with the cooperation of the Hydroplane and Race Boat Museum in Kent, Washington. Four vintage unlimited hydroplanes will be displayed around the community and at the Museum of North Idaho. Tentatively scheduled to appear are the 1968 Miss Budweiser, the 1967 Miss Budweiser, the “Green Dragon” Miss Bardahl and the Miss Wahoo. Each of these boats competed in Diamond Cup racing including racing under different owner/sponsor teams. These boats were state of the art 40-50 years ago. They are powered by WWII fighter plane V-12 engines and capable of running at speeds in the 190 mph range/The Guide to North Idaho. More here.

HBO Poll: KTEC Levies Will Fail

  • Tuesday Poll: Barely one-third of the respondents (a combined 38 of 111, or 34.2%) believe that the levies for the proposed Kootenai Technical Education Campus in three county school districts will pass with the needed 55 percent approval in each. Almost half (52 of 111, or 46.8%) believe the proposal will fail to win even a majority vote, while 21 of 111 (18.9%) believe the levies will get majority approval but fail to reach 55 percent.
  • Today’s Poll: Do you agree with the current 14th amendment provision that all people born in the USA are automatic citizens?

GOP Rips Minnick Voter ID Mailer

A taxpayer-paid mailer informing his 1st Congressional District constituents that they’ll need photo ID to vote in November has prompted the Idaho GOP to charge Democratic Rep. Walt Minnick with hypocrisy. On Aug. 3, Minnick used the congressional “franking” privilege to send 100,000 mailers to registered voters at a cost of $59,000. The postcard is headlined “Idaho Voting Laws Have Changed.” The 2010 Legislature passed a law, effective July 1, requiring voters to produce photo ID at the polls. Idaho GOP Executive Director Jonathan Parker cited Minnick’s 1996 statement, “I propose Congress eliminate Congressional junk mail completely,” as proof of Minnick’s flip-flopping now that he’s in office/Dan Popkey, Idaho Statesman. More here.

Question: I got one of these mailers. Did you? Did you consider it informative? Or a questionable use by Congressman Walt Minnick of his franking privileges?

Cope: Let BSU Play, Let UI Learn

” … never again should (President Bob Kustra’s) poor widdle Bwonco fans have to waddle their fannies up Highway 95 and be subjected to the inebriated nasties of Akey’s Army—most of whom are probably from the Treasure Valley anyway and know all too well what it’s like to be inundated by the orange and blue—and never again should the Brigadoon burg of Moscow be subjected to the incessant hype, the boorish self-satisfaction and the strident cheesiness that I, like many, have come to associate with Bronco Nation. But especially in these times, when Idaho’s institutions of higher learning are under such duress from budget cuts and hostile political forces, we must go further than merely calling the rivalry off. What I am suggesting is that Boise State and Idaho divvy up the functions associated with universities, go their separate ways, and cross paths nevermore”/Bill Cope, Boise Weekly. More here.

Question: What do you think of columnist Bill Cope’s tongue-in-cheek proposal to end the Boise State/Idaho rivalry by giving each institution the area in which it excels — football for BSU, academics for UIdaho?

Sightem In Downtown Coeur d’Alene

From his perch above downtown Coeur d’Alene, Don Sausser spotted a bearded man pushing his overloaded bicycle along First Street. Don said that the bike appeared to have “the contents of a motorhome on a two-wheeler.”

Hammes: Gays Now, Bigamists Later

But even if last week’s ruling (striking down California referendum that marriage is between a man and a woman) stands it will not be the end of the marriage debate. It may only launch the next chapter in the saga. And the next few rounds of this fight could change some folks who today support the ‘right to marry’ into opponents. The bigamists will do it. That is, if courts decide marriage is a Constitutional right, then it applies to bigamists as well as homosexuals. While dirty old men who take young girls as brides will always be despised by sane folks, it would be legal if courts deem marriage a ‘right.’ With the age of consent (if there is such among ardent polygamists) we’re talking some very young brides indeed. The age of consent is as young as 14 in some states and is 16 in most states/Dan Hammes, St. Maries Gazette-Record. More here.

Question: Will polygamists someday have a right to marry as many females as they want, and as young as they want?

Anti-CdA Tribe Group Targets Mayor

The North Idaho Citizens’ Alliance (NICA) threatened to recall St. Maries Mayor Tami Holdahl if the city signs a mutual aid and cross-deputization agreement with the tribe. In a broadly distributed email, NICA head Peg Carver wrote, “We have some grave concerns that Mayor Holdahl is attempting to throw us under the bus once again.” we think it may be time to initiate petitions for her recall as mayor.” The dispute started two weeks ago. Tribal Police Chief Keith Hutcheson offered to help the St. Maries city police during Paul Bunyan Days and the 1910 fire memorial when the city’s force might be overwhelmed by the number of people in town. The St. Maries city council and mayor are considering the proposal/Connor DeVries, St. Maries Gazette-Record. More here.

Question: What do you make of this development?

Rammell Eyes Legislature, St. Maries

In late May, Rammell said that he was done with Idaho politics for the foreseeable future and that he had no plans to run for elected office.  He might be changing his tune slightly, though he points out that he hasn’t made any firm decisions.  ”My supporters in District 2, the St. Maries area, are wanting me to run there,” said Rammell. “And I’m considering it. But I am waiting until they draw the districts up next year to see what happens”/Dustin Hurst, Idaho Reporter. More here.

Question: Could Rex Rammell when a seat in the Idaho Legislature by moving to District 2 (southern Bonner County, Shoshone County, and St. Maries)?

Hobo Spiders Mating, Moving Indoors

The Hobo Spider is making its way indoors again. Experts say August is the mating season for hobo spiders, which means you’ll most likely find them in pairs, and they may be more aggressive. The venom from a hobo spider can eat your flesh, and may cause a staph infection, not to mention considerable pain. Which is why experts say not to touch them, but kill them right away and call a professional if there is an infestation/KHQ. More here.

Question: Have you ever had a close encounter with a hobo spider?

AM: Byron Hout Learns From Mistake

In this Sept. 4, 2009, image from ESPN, Oregon running back LeGarrette Blount, left, punches Boise State’s Byron Hout as Coach Chris Peterson, foreground right, tries to pull Hout away at the end of Boise State’s 19-8 victory over Oregon. A year later, Hout, a former Lake City High star, says he learned a lesson from the dust-up and is looking forward to the 2010 season. Story here

Question: Tell us about a mistake that taught you an important lesson?

Bear Spray Popular This Summer

Item: Bear spray popular at North Idaho sporting goods stores/KHQ

More Info: Bear Spray is a popular item this summer at many North Idaho sporting goods stores. “I mean we sell a lot of bear spray especially during the summer time, but for some reason this year we’ve sold quite a lot more,” said Steve Green, Wholesale Sports sales associate. Steve Green with Wholesale Sports in Coeur d’Alene attributes the higher sales to some of the more recent reports of bear attacks, along with a higher number of people recreating in the area.

Question: Would you rely on bear spray to protect you from bears in the woods?

Only 1/2 Of New Journalists Find Work

Item: Only half US journalism students finding work in first year, survey suggests/Journalism.co.uk

More Info: With just over half of the 2,700 polled students finding work, the 2009 survey produced the worst results since the institute began surveying graduates 24 years ago and marks a significant decline from 2007 when 70% of respondents found work within the first year.

Question: Is anyone in your family a journalist?

Thieves Prefer Hondas, Toyotas

Item: Local police say stolen cars often recovered in one piece:Toyotas, Hondas still top thieves’ wish lists/Jody Lawrence-Turner, SR

More Info: But for the most part, those who steal cars remain satisfied with early to mid-90s Honda Civics and Accords, which remain the No. 1 and 2 most commonly stolen cars, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau and the region’s auto theft task force, made up of the Washington State Patrol, Spokane County Sheriff’s Office and the Spokane Police Department

Question: Have you ever had your vehicle stolen?

Ramirez: Let The Eat …

Michael Ramirez/Investor’s Business Daily

Poolman: Leave Discrete Pee-ers Alone

Poolman: If you’re being inconspicuous (re: public urination) what’s the big deal. Now, if you’re whipping it out in plain view and being an ass — absolutely a ticket is in order. Is it just me or is the (Coeur d’Alene Police Department) becoming more and more voyeuristic all the time? First it’s the web cam on the beach and now heightened lookout for pee-ers.

Question: Should Coeur d’Alene police arrest all individuals caught urinating in public, including those who try to do so discretely?

Parting Shot — 8.10.10

On colleague Jesse Tinsley’s Facebook page, Jesse posts this photo of Spokane Mayor Mary Verner at the opening of a skate park in the Lilac City. He writes: “Mary Verner, center, mayor of Spokane, along with her grandkids, takes in the view of the new skate park at the Dwight Merkel Sports Complex, which opened today.” Jesse also explains that tattoo surrounding the skater’s belly button, to the right of the mayor: “It’s a jelly doughnut that says ‘thickness.’”

End Of Vacation Wild Card — 8.10.10

I usually realize how hard it is to keep the wheels turning here at Huckleberries Online HQ when I return from vacation. It takes a day or two or three to get back into the rhythm, especially trying to post items while listening to Scanner Traffic. I heard something about a young coyote being located this morning. But didn’t catch where. That’s a sign that I’m no where near operating at full speed today (as is evidence by the fact that I still haven’t compiled the AM Headlines). Great vacation, that took me to central California for a family wedding. I’ll be up to speed by tomorrow or Wednesday. So hang in there. Now, for your Wild Card …

Pre-Snap Read Ranks Vandals No. 75

I don’t think Idaho can replicate last season’s success. Not to say I don’t believe this season cannot be deemed a success, merely that I think we’ll see Idaho fall slightly short of bowl play, landing likely five, though perhaps six wins from its 13-game schedule. My rationale, sure to anger the Idaho fan base, is simple — if hard to define: the Vandals were able to sneak up on teams last fall, particularly in the early going, and will not have that luxury in 2010/Paul Myerberg, Pre-Snap Read. More here. H/T: Vandal Nation via Twitter.

Question: How many times will the Idaho Vandals win this football season?

PF Woman Faces Felony Pruning Count

Item: Felony hedge trimming lands woman In court/Tori Brunetti, KXLY4

More Info: A Post Falls woman is facing felony charges for what she calls simply pruning some bushes. The only problem is that she doesn’t own those bushes. Her neighbor does.Police say they are not her bushes to trim and on Tuesday Chris Greenfield faced a judge charged with malicious injury to property.The dispute is between two neighbors – Chris Greenfield and Eric Wurmlinger – over Wurmlinger’s 10 arborvitae. Wurmlinger says Greenfield chopped them down without his permission while he was on vacation.

Question: Have you ever been tempted to take matters into your own hands re: something on your neighbor’s property that is bothering you?

PM Headlines — 8.10.10

Flowers grow in a field with  Mount  Hood seen in the back ground Monday, near Laurance Lake, in Mount Hood National Forest, Ore. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

Photo Of The Day — 8.10.10

A Berry Picker spotted this Coeur d’Alene Press news stand, with a dead squirrel in it, in front of Shooters last week. You write the cutline.

Top Cutlines:

  • 1. North Idaho microwave… just make sure to cover your meal with newspaper before cooking — Bent.
  • 2. “We thought readers would mistake the dead squirrel for Doug Clark’s mugshot, and pick up our paper instead of theirs,” said an insider. “Turns out the squirrel was way better looking than Clark, and it didn’t work. Next time we’ll try something that’s been run over a few times” — Brent Andrews.
  • 3. The CDA Press Restaurant Review with visual! — Soaf.
  • HM: Nic

Scanner Traffic/PM — 8.10.10

  • 5:35 p.m. Caller reports that someone in a pickup may be stealing county gravel from a site @ Hauser Lake Road & Cliffhouse.
  • 5:16 p.m. An animal control officer reports she has to “wrangle a goat” first before checking on a report of a dog in a gray Volvo @ Silverwood.
  • 4:55 p.m. Caller reports that a s/b female w/a backpack @ H41 & Prairie/Rathdrum may be a possible suspect in a recent car-jacking in Sandpoint involving Arizona criminals.
  • 4:53 p.m. Caller is concerned about a shirtless male in a dirty hat who is sitting in the weeds along 2nd & Frederick/Post Falls watching vehicles go by.
  • 4:51 p.m. A camper shell is lying on w/b I-90 blocking traffic @ M/P 7 (H41).
  • 4:15 p.m. Department of Motor Vehicles reports a wanted person on premises.
  • 4:01 p.m. Rebecca @ Budget Saver reports that a female caught smoking meth in a room refuses to leave the Sherman Avenue motel.
  • 3:55 p.m. Coeur d’Alene police have caught a male that they were chasing on foot by Hastings & Big 5 on Appleway. The male was allegedly carrying a stolen gun and ran when he was stopped allegedly riding a stolen motorcycle.
  • 3:51 p.m. A sinkhole is forming at H41 & Poleline/Post Falls as the result of a water main break. Mike Perry’s KHQ report here.
  • Much more below

Risch: Let’s Rethink 14th Amendment

Last week, U.S. House Minority Leader John Boehner suggested to Fox News that Congress might need to re-examine the 14th Amendment in the immigration debate, and that the country should re-think giving automatic citizenship to anyone born in the United States.  Sen. Jim Risch, Idaho’s junior member of the U.S. Senate, told IdahoReporter.com Monday that examination of the amendment should enter the immigration discussion, but that it must be coupled with strict immigration enforcement/Dustin Hurst, Idaho Reporter. More here.

Question: Should anyone born in the United States receive automatic citizenship?

Christie, Rolly Up For NIC Election

The deadline for filing a declaration of candidacy for the two open positions on the North Idaho College Board of Trustees is 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 1. NIC is governed by a five-member board of trustees elected from within Kootenai County for staggered terms. Seat A and Seat B, currently held by Rolly Williams and Christie Wood, respectively, will appear on this year’s general election ballot during Idaho’s general election Nov. 2. Both positions are four-year terms.

Question: Do you think Christie’s CAVEr friends will try to unseat her?

Cops Find Live Cat Marinating In Car

In this photo provided by the SPCA Serving Erie County, Navarro, a four-year-old cat found “marinating” in oil and peppers in the trunk of a car in Buffalo, N.Y. on Sunday night, is shown Monday at the agency’s Tonawanda, N.Y. shelter infirmary. Buffalo police say officers heard the cat meowing when they stopped 51-year-old Gary Korkuc of Cheektowaga to ticket him for running a stop sign. Story here. (AP Photo/SPCA Serving Erie County)

Question: What would be a proper punishment for driver found marinating cat in his car?

JeanieS: Garage Sale Annoyances

  • 1. No price tags
  • 2. No signs
  • 3. Signs with teeny tiny print so small you have to stop your car, get out of the car, lift up the box, and bring it to your face to read it.
  • 4. Signs without addresses
  • 5. Phantom signs – those are the stupid signs that stupid people leave on the corner long after the garage sale is over. I’d pick up the stupid signs and throw them in the offending lawns but I’d only be doing the stupid people a favor. I passed the same sign today that I’ve passed for the last five days and have yet to find the Huge DVDs and Much More Sale – and it even has the address. Nobody’s home. Curtains are closed. No car in the driveway. Maybe it’s some frenemy making a sick joke.
  • More from JeanieS/Nuts & Nonsense here

Question: What annoys you most about garage sales?

NIdaho Blogosphere — 8.10.10

At JeanC’s Cathouse & Shooting Gallery, the blogmistress describes this photo as “Scrapper being totally adorable.”

HBO Numbers for month of July: 194,140 page-views/120,396 unique views

Idaho Ed To Get $51M From Jobs Bill

The state Department of Education says Idaho is expected to receive $51 million as part of a $10 billion job saving measure that has passed the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation is part of a larger, $26 billion jobs bill aimed at helping teachers and other public workers avoid layoffs. The bill now goes to President Barack Obama for his signature. State education officials are still getting details on how the money will be spent or distributed/Associated Press.

Question: Do you support the $26B jobs bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives today to prevent layoffs of teachers and other public employees?

Kellogg Theater Gone w/The Wind

In the 1990s, the Rena Theatre in Kellogg resurrected this movie poster for the showing of the 1920s film “The Tornado.” The Rena Theatre closed its doors for the last time while I was on vacation. On his Get Out! North Idaho Facebook page, OrangeTV writes: “This bites. These types of places should be preserved and maintained, but new owner Dave Smith plans to petition to have it removed from the Historic Places register so he can gut it and turn it into some awful thing or another …”

Question: What became of the movie theater that you attended as a child?

Bar Report: Cops Nail Public Urinators

Coeur d’Alene police caught a lot of public urinators in downtown Coeur d’Alene b/n July 22-28, including two guys hanging out near the Torch Lounge on Lakeside who couldn’t hold their water. In the latest Downtown Bar Report (for which a Berry Picker risked life & limb to ferry to this blog), you can follow the police battle against outdoor urination and bar fights, including the one mentioned above that happened @ 11:59 p.m. Thursday, July 22 @ 216 E Coeur d’Alene Ave: “Two males (28 & 30 years of age) were cited for Urinating in Public after officers noticed a group of 4 -5 persons in the Torch parking lot looking toward the alley. Upon approaching the alley, the officers contacted a male who was intoxicated and showed officers where he had urinated in the alley. Officers had observed a second male in the act and he was cited as well.” Complete Downtown Bar Report (July 22-28) here.

Question: Are you satisfied that Coeur d’Alene police are keeping a tight rein on public urinators, barroom fights, & worse at downtown bars this summer?

Food Porn: Rosa’s Stuffed Cabbage

From OrangeTV/Get Out! North Idaho comes the latest Food Porn: Stuffed Cabbage. Rosa’s Italian Market & Deli describes the mouth-watering dish above this way: “Our cabbage rolls are filled with lean ground beef, rice and sweet onion, topped with a special sauce, bacon and saurkraut, then baked to perfection. Secret family recipe from my oldest and dearest friend Sue Navickas-Pelesko.”

Question: Do you enjoy cabbage dishes?

Dustin: Free Dinner Or Ballgame?

In Washington, D.C., today, Dustin Hurst of the Idaho Reporter is debating whether he should attend a free dinner tonight or plunk down $15 to watch the Washington Nationals host the Florida Marlins? He wants to know which he should choose. Before you answer the question, you should know that the Nationals have activated rookie pitching sensation Stephen Strasburg from the 15-day disabled list. And he’ll be making the start tonight.

Question: Would you rather see Stephen Strasburg pitch for Washington against Florida tonight — or enjoy a nice meal free in Washington, D.C.?

Minnick Lone D On Taxpayer Hero List

Idaho Congressman Walt Minnick is the first Democrat since 2006 to be named a “Taxpayer Hero” by the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste, a group that decries “pork-barrel spending” and tracks congressional votes on “wasteful programs.” The group’s president, Tom Schatz, said in a news release today, “Rep. Minnick is the first Democratic Taxpayer Hero since 2006 and deserves special recognition for this achievement. His vote rating shows that it is not impossible for Democrats to vote to cut wasteful spending, reduce the tax burden, and make government more accountable to taxpayers, and it stands in stark contrast to the average of 4 percent for his House colleagues”/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

Question: Did Raul Labrador’s road to Capitol Hill just get steeper?

Idaho OK w/Concealed Weapon Permits

The state of Utah, one of Idaho’s neighbors to the south, has seen a steady rise in concealed weapons permits over the past few years that highlight some differences in how the states handle letting citizens carry firearms. A key difference between Idaho and Utah is portability—people who hold Utah’s concealed weapons can use those permits to legally carry a gun in 32 states across the country, including Idaho.  Idaho’s permit is good in just 26 states, according to the National Rifle Association (NRA). Idaho also recognizes a concealed weapon permit issued by any state in the U.S/Brad Iverson-Long, Idaho Reporter. More here.

Question: Do you agree with Idaho’s policy to recognize concealed weapons permits issued by any state?

INW: Prank Leads To 4 Drownings

An Elmore County Sheriff’s Department boat equipped with side-scan sonar equipment arrives at American Falls Reservoir near American Falls on Monday afternoon to join the search for four missing boaters. Rescuers recovered the bodies of the four who drown as the result of a prank. See story below. (AP Photo/Sean Ellis/Idaho State Journal)

High Noon: Grateful Dead Sing On

Grateful Dead members Phil Lesh, left, and Bob Weir sing the national anthem as part of Jerry Garcia tribute night prior to the Chicago Cubs vs. San Francisco Giants baseball game Monday in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)

Question: Have you ever attended a Grateful Dead concert or admitted that you are a “Deadhead” (details please)?

Scanner Traffic/AM — 8.10.10

  • Noon: Caller reports a suspicious male @ 321 N. Military/Fortgrounds.
  • 11:57 a.m. An 8YO male on a motorized bike is cutting off drivers and riding recklessly @ 22nd & Ridgeview/Post Falls.
  • 11:05 a.m. Sheep are running loose along Highway 41 @ M/P 6.2 (near Boekel Road).
  • 10:58 a.m. A male is s/b on Northwest Boulevard @ Mill, screaming at traffic & waving his arms.
  • 10:56 a.m. Someone is stuck in an elevator at North Idaho College.
  • 10:38 a.m. Motorist reports that his vehicle window — and possibly his headlights — was broken with pea gravel that’s spilling out of a dump truck, with its back gate open, traveling n/b on H95 @ M/P 463 (Westmond).
  • 10:25 a.m. Caller reports a sick dog @ Maple & Cloverleaf/Hayden.
  • 10:07 a.m. Terry @ 16th & Laurel/CdA wants to talk to an officer re: possible fraud.
  • 9:54 a.m. A concrete slab fell off a truck and is creating a safety hazard on I-90.
  • 9:43 a.m. The traffic light @ Sherman & 11th/CdA is stuck on red.

HBO Poll: No To Community Fluoride

  • Vacation Poll: In a poll that ran for more than a week while I was on vacation, 176 of 345 respondents (51%) said that communities shouldn’t add fluoride to their water systems to fight tooth decay. 155 of 345 respondents (45%) said communities should add fluoride to their water systems. 14 of 345 (4%) were undecided.
  • Tuesday’s Poll: What percentage of the vote will the proposed Kootenai Technical Education Campus levies get?

Quest Aircraft Lays Off 65 Workers

Item: Quest announces new layoffs/David Keyes, Bonner County Bee

More Info: Quest Aircraft Co. announced Monday that 65 full-time employees have been laid off from the local plane manufacturer. Quest CEO Paul Schaller met with the employees Monday and emphasized they would be eligible to be rehired once the economy picks up. Quest now has 155 employees — down from 340 last year.

Question: Are you worried, at this point in the recession without end amen, that you might lose your job?

DFO Hears From Haley Re: Guv’s Race

I received this, ahem, personal message in my snail mail from Chairman Haley Barbour of the Republican Governor’s Association re: the Idaho governor’s race, while I was on vacation: “Idaho Democrats and their partners from across the country — intent on justifying the liberal, big-government agenda that President Obama and the Democrat majorities in Congress are aggressively promoting — have raised more money for their gubernatorial candidate’s campaign than we have for Governor Otter over the past two reporting periods.”

Question: Do you think state and national Republicans are truly concerned about losing the Idaho’s governor’s seat?

Biz, School Leaders Seek KTEC OK

Item: With voter approval, campus would provide technical training/Alison Boggs, S

More Info: The Kootenai Technical Education Campus is envisioned as a way to develop more skilled tradespeople for the area. It is projected to open in fall 2013 with 180 students who would split their time between the technical school and their regular high school, with available slots divided among the three school districts

Herb Huseland/Bay Views: This investment in the future generations will benefit all citizens, remarked Jenkins, “even those that don’t have school age children, since the workforce in North Idaho is aging fast, trained replacements will have to fill their shoes to keep the local economy healthy, plus it is another incentive to keep our youth from migrating to greener pastures. Not everyone is going to become a doctor, or scientist or any of the other professions. As in every economy, the trades are the backbone of a society. The schools need your support for this jump into the 21st century of diversified education.” More here.

Question: Have you changed your mind on the pro-tech vocational high school proposed for the Rathdrum Prairie?

Stevens Dies In Alaska Plane Crash

In this Aug. 4, 2008, file photo, Sen.  Ted  Stevens, R-Alaska, speaks in Anchorage, Alaska, announcing that he is running for re-election.  Stevens  was believed to be aboard a plane that crashed amid southwest Alaska’s remote mountains and lakes, authorities said this morning. Story here. (AP Photo/Al Grillo, File)

 

The Magicians Club of Washington, DC

With abracadabra
and pixie dust too,
they make money appear
right out of the blue.

The Bard of Sherman Avenue

Twin Falls Bans Texting-While-Driving

Twin Falls City Council has adopted a plan to ban texting-while-driving within its city limits.  The proposal, approved by council members Monday, will not go into effect until later this year.  Council members made the city the first in the state to ban the practice. If a driver is caught texting behind the wheel by police officers in Twin Falls, he will face a $50 fine.  Greg Lanting, councilman for the city, told KTVB television that drivers will be given time to adjust to the new law. “If officers see people they believe are texting they are going to be stopped and it will originally be an education thing trying to get people to realize it is against the law in the city of Twin Falls,” Lanting said/Dustin Hurst, Idaho Reporter. More here.

Question: Would you like to see your community outlaw texting-while-driving?

Cops Deny Boise Guardian Access

Sam Crawford sends along a post from the Boise Guardian Web site in which the weekly publication announces that it has been denied access to Boise police records. In a short message to the Boise Weekly, a police spokesperson said: “You are no longer on the ‘media’ email list. This is is for media only. Feel free to call me at my desk on this or any other issue.” The Guardian goes on to say: “The Police and Fire departments have now fallen in line with the rest of Boise”s information manipulators in denying us access to routine announcements and updates. We don’t claim any special status since we really represent the public’s “right to know,” but we should not suffer discrimination at the hands of our government either.” Complete story here.

Question: Should government be allowed to decide which alternative media are legitimate and which are not?

OTV Reviews NIdaho Music Scene

While there’s more original music to be had locally than possibly ever before, cover bands indeed remain the meat and potatoes of the North Idaho bar scene. It’s no surprise that local bargoers mainly just want to dance to familiar favorites, and there’s nothing wrong with that. It would be hard to list them all, but bands like Simon Sez (left), the Cronkites, the Perones, Four on the Floor, Subtracting the Negative, Somebody’s Hero, Nova, and Bite the Bullet perform everywhere and they all manage to make drunken revelers shake their elbows and rattle their jewelry to everything from “Poker Face” to “California Girls” (both the Beach Boys’ and the Katy Perry versions), and a million other classics in between/OrangeTV, Get Out! North Idaho (w/courtesy photo). More here.

Question: Do you have a favorite North Idaho band?

Labrador Now A GOP ‘Young Gun’

Item: Labrador now a GOP ‘Young Gun’: In reversal, he joins program that helps raise funds/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise

More Info: Idaho GOP congressional candidate Raul Labrador has ended an awkward dance with the National Republican Congressional Committee by agreeing to join its “Young Guns” candidate recruitment program, after refusing earlier. “With the election coming so quickly, I don’t want the NRCC changing our campaign themes and strategy,” Labrador said. “My campaign will reflect Idaho values, not the priorities of Washington, D.C.” But, he said, “After being assured they would not interfere with our campaign’s Idaho-focused strategy, I agreed to participate.”

Question: Will Labrador’s off-again-on-again relationship with the Republican ‘Young Guns’ candidate recruitment program help him or hurt him now?

ICB: Minnick Is Hiding

“After 18 months of ignoring his constituents and maintaining his unflinching support for the Democrats’ failed agenda, Walt Minnick has plenty of reason to hide this recess,” said NRCC Communications Director Ken Spain. “Unfortunately for Minnick, laying low isn’t part of his job description. With the elections less than 100 days away, will Walt Minnick attempt to own up to his partisan voting record and engage his constituents face-to-face this August, or will he cowardly go into hiding and avoid talking about his party’s reckless agenda?/Idaho Conservative Blogger. More here.

Question: Is Minnick in hiding?

Signe: Blind Leading The Blind

Signe Wilkinson/Philadelphia Inquirer

Monday Wild Card 8.9.10

Light blogging ahead, folks. DFO is milking out his vaction for one more day and I’m taking the boys and their cousins to Silverwood in a bit.

I love have older kids. I plan to spend the day on the lazy river while the guys do the rollercoaster thing.

However, I’d never leave you without a few things to talk about. Did you notice the latest in the ongoing Cda city council election saga? I’m sure you can find other things to discuss as well and you can use this wild card to do just that.

Be nice to each other. DFO’s coming back tomorrow and I want to be able to give him a glowing report.

Parting Shot: Yellowstone expanse

A rainbow arcs over the canyon at the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River in Yellowstone National Park.

CODY, Wyo. – You know western Wyoming and dumb luck are both on your side when:

• Your daughter spies three mule deer in a Yellowstone meadow. Then a moose mid-river. Then bison, fox and marmot, trumpeter swans, a wayward seagull and a grizzly family – mama bear and two cubs, romping across the high slopes, safely distant but still riveting.

• You hear the word “rodeo” used as a verb. Then you attend one in Cody, about 50 miles east of Yellowstone, and see not only bucking broncs, bull-riding, barrel-racing and calf-roping but also a stunt rider who circles the ring while standing astride two galloping horses. Read more.

Share your Yellowstone memories here.

Mosque Misgivings

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Muslims trying to build houses of worship in the nation’s heartland, far from the heated fight in New York over plans for a mosque near ground zero, are running into opponents even more hostile and aggressive.

Foes of proposed mosques have deployed dogs to intimidate Muslims holding prayer services and spray-painted “Not Welcome” on a construction sign, then later ripped it apart.

The 13-story, $100 million Islamic center that could soon rise two blocks from the site of the Sept. 11 attacks would dwarf the proposals elsewhere, yet the smaller projects in local communities are stoking a sharper kind of fear and anger than has showed up in New York. Full story

Thoughts?

Too pretty to be an engineer?

LOS ANGELES (Reuters Life!) – Too hot to be an engineer or prison guard?

Good looks can kill a woman’s chances of snaring jobs considered “masculine,” according to a study by the University of Colorado Denver Business School.

Attractive women faced discrimination when they applied for jobs where appearance was not seen as important. These positions included job titles like manager of research and development, director of finance, mechanical engineer and construction supervisor.

They were also overlooked for categories like director of security, hardware salesperson, prison guard and tow-truck driver. Read more.

Do you think beautiful women face discrimination?

Fill in the blank

The first romantic crush I ever had was on _______

High Noon: You call this a recovery?

According to the Obama administration, this is the Summer of Recovery: the global recession is over, factories across America are ramping up production, and corporate balance sheets are dripping black ink. So why does it still feel more like a Winter of Discontent (albeit with 90 percent humidity)? Even as Fed chairman Ben Bernanke is talking up the end of recession, new data out last week showed that economic growth in the U.S. was lower in the second quarter than the first, and that the downturn of 2009 was worse than we thought. Sure, the economy is technically growing again, but not by as much as economists had hoped. Newsweek, Full story.

Thoughts?

For Idaho kids, it’s not easy eating greens

Idaho teens admit they don’t eat enough fruits and veggies:

Students at Taft Elementary School in Boise’s Veterans Park neighborhood may be surprised when they return to class Aug. 25. The community garden they began as school ended will abound with lettuce, spices and flowers.

“We want the students to come back and see what can be done, and how good fresh vegetables are,” said Brenda Fralish, who has helped keep up the garden through the summer. Her grandson attends the school.

Produce from Taft’s garden will be used at snack times, in lunches and to help feed neighborhood families.

With luck, students will develop healthy eating habits that will stay with them through their teenage years and beyond. Idaho Statesman. Read more.

How did/do you get your kids to eat their veggies?

Cda Triathlon

COEUR d’ALENE - Suzanne Endsley showed she’s still got plenty of kick left in her legs and Kalen Darling just came out to have a little fun.

Both Endsley, 44, of Coeur d’Alene, and Darling, 22, of Spokane, became second-time champions in the Coeur d’Alene Triathlon Saturday.

Endsley finished in 2 hours, 23 minutes, and 8 seconds in the 27th annual event. She also won in 2001, finishing several minutes faster. David Cole, Cda Press Full Story

Have you ever participated in a triathlon? Why?

Singing about domestic violence

Video for Eminem’s smash single “Love The Way You Lie,” featuring Rihanna, premiered Thursday  on MTV and VEVO.

It’s hard to forget the haunting photo that leaked out early last year of pop star Rihanna, her elegant face bruised and battered after a violent assault by her then-boyfriend, R&B singer Chris Brown.

Now, she’s appearing in something else shocking, though thankfully fictional: rapper Eminem’s chart-topping “Love the Way You Lie,” a song (and now video) that graphically depicts a physically abusive relationship.

And the debate has begun: Is the song a treatise against (or apology for) domestic violence, or an irresponsible glorification of it? Or, is it something uncomfortable in between? Full story.

Gotta say this one won’t be my new fav song anytime soon, and the video is hard to watch. What do you think of Eminem’s choice of subject matter?

The eagle has not landed

h A worker inspects an Alaska Airlines jet engine Sunday in Sitka, Alaska, after an eagle was sucked into it.

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An eagle was sucked into an engine of an Alaska Airlines jet as the aircraft was taking off from a small southeast Alaska town Sunday, causing the flight to be aborted.

Seattle-bound Flight 68 was approaching takeoff speed when the eagle was ingested into the left engine shortly after 10 a.m. in Sitka. None of the 134 passengers or five crew members was hurt.

“We were roaring down the runway and about the time they’d be picking the nose up, we hear a big kaboom,” said passenger Bill Shake, of Portland. “It sounded like a flat tire.” More here.

Have you had any scary experiences while flying?

 

Sandpoint’s appeal

Sandpoint artist Connie Scherr, pictured at her home last month,  plans to take part in the Eighth Annual Artists’ Studio Tour coming up the next two weekends.

In recent years, several national publications have written about a quaint resort town located in North Idaho, which until these stories started appearing was a well-kept secret. Now Sandpoint is recognized by many as a year round resort destination located in a beautiful setting. But it is more than a place where skiing and water sports can be enjoyed. One of those qualities that seem to draw people here is a characteristic mentioned in nearly every publication written about this area – Sandpoint is an artists’ community. Patty Hutchens, SR, Read more

What do you enjoy most about Sandpoint?

Better late than never?

Pittsburgh Steelers’ Deshea Townsend (26) loses his helmet as he hits Seattle Seahawks’ Joe Jurevicius during the fourth quarter of the Super Bowl XL football game Sunday, Feb. 5, 2006, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

RENTON — Better late than never.

Haunted by blown calls in Super Bowl XL, referee Bill Leavy acknowledged officiating mistakes that may have contributed to the Seahawks’ 21-10 defeat to the Pittsburgh Steelers 4 ½ years ago.

“It was a tough thing for me,” Leavy said Friday. “I kicked two calls in the fourth quarter, and I impacted the game, and as an official you never want to do that.”

Although Leavy did not refer to any specific calls, two controversial plays in the fourth quarter of the 2006 game hurt the Seahawks and incensed their fans. Percy Allen, Seattle Times, Full story

Are we over this yet?

OtisG’s Wedding Weekend Wild Card 8.7-8.8.10

It’s shaping up to be a lovely weekend. Please join me in giving a shout out to longtime berry picker OtisG who will wed the beautiful Mavis, Saturday afternoon.

If you have any words of advice to offer the couple, please post it on this Wild Card as I am sure they will be reading the blog on their honeymoon!

For those of us not getting married this weekend, there’s still lots of summer fun to be had that doesn’t involve ‘til death us do part. In addition, to advice and best wishes for the happy couple you can use ths Wild Card to post other items of interest.

Bill McCrory in contempt?

COEUR d’ALENE - The attorney representing City Councilman Mike Kennedy wants a document reviewer held in contempt of court for reportedly violating a confidentiality agreement.

Voter information pertaining to the recently-reviewed absentee envelopes wasn’t supposed to be shared outside the courtroom and Bill McCrory violated that privacy agreement, a complaint filed Thursday by attorney Scott Reed states.

“Information he observed in the examination of election documents … he swore he would keep to himself as confidential,” the complaint says. McCrory’s envelope findings were filed as a court affidavit, and later posted on the website, Opencda.com, along with a newspaper article about the affidavit. Both the affidavit and article revealed voter identities. Tom Hasslinger, Cda Press Read more.

Yikes! Persons found guilty of contempt of court face fines or jail time. How do you this think latest sally in the never-ending saga of Brannon v. Kennedy will turn out?

Parting Shot: Blue Devils edged

Cheyenne’s Cody Farrell steals second as Danny Rowton of the Blue Devils snags the off-line throw.

Crisp, fundamental baseball it wasn’t in the nightcap of the Northwest Regional American Legion tournament.

Wyoming state champ Cheyenne Post 6 found a way to outlast the Spokane Blue Devils, 5-4, as the first day ended late on a sticky Thursday evening at Gonzaga University’s Washington Trust Field before an estimated crowd of 600. Full story.

What is your favorite sport to watch?

TGIF Wild Card 8.6.10

For those of us who often work weekends, Friday is not that big of deal.  But this has been a long, hot week in blogland and I am looking forward to Friday in Spokane. IF  I get all my work done I may have “Drinks and Snacks with the Spokane Riverkeeper” on the Sarnac rooftop and then there’s First Friday!

Elsewhere, there’s the ongoing Festival at Sandpoint and oh, there is sunshine and so many lakes to choose from!

Can you tell I’m ready to say “goodbye” to work? Let us know about your weekend plans, or any other news on this Wild Card.

Sockeye to swim into Redfish Lake

Idaho Department of Fish and Game workers release hatchery-raised sockeye salmon into Redfish Lake Creek in 2005 as part of a program to boost sockeye numbers and prevent their extinction.

BOISE — Enough endangered sockeye salmon are returning to central Idaho this year that some will be allowed to swim the final few hundred yards into Redfish Lake under their own power, something that hasn’t happened in two decades due to dismal spawning runs.

State biologists expect 1,400 to 1,500 sockeye will return to the Stanley region, up from last year’s 833. Full Story.

I know this is probably not the right question to ask here but… what’s your favorite way to eat salmon?

Unlicensed Lemonade

Drinking lemonade from a little girl’s unlicensed stand is a health risk we’ll take any day of the week. But we would have been out of luck last week in Portland, Ore. Some knuckle-headed health inspectors shut down the entrepreneurial dream of 7-year-old Julie Murphy.

The little girl was selling glasses of lemonade for 50 cents a pop at a local art fair. Her crime? She didn’t have a $120 temporary restaurant license, the Oregonian reports. A clipboard-toting health inspector told the girl and her mom that they’d have to shut down the stand or get nailed with a $500 fine. Scott Hensley, NPR Read More.

Thoughts?

Black Happy back thanks to Facebook

Members of Black Happy join appreciative fans during a show in 1993.

After 15 years of dormancy, Black Happy owes its run of mostly sold-out reunion shows to Facebook.

“The catalyst that got us back together was this Facebook page, ‘Black Happy Needs to Reunite,’ ” guitarist Greg Hjort said in a telephone interview from his home in California.

“We were hearing echoes from friends but we didn’t know if anyone would want to come out for a show. But when it started with the social media stuff we thought, ‘Maybe there’s some interest is this.’ ” Isamu Jordan, SR Full story

What band would you most like to see give a reunion concert?

Fill in the blank

Right now, I’d rather be ________

High Noon: GOP cautiously confident of big gains

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell,  right, listens as Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., speaks during a news conference on Capitol Hill

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – With Democrats on defense, Republicans expressed cautious confidence of big gains in the fall elections — particularly in governor’s races — though they acknowledged that the GOP must do more to snatch control of Congress from President Barack Obama’s party.

Three months before the midterm elections, it was all business and little celebration as the 168-member Republican National Committee met this week to finalize Tampa, Fla., as the 2012 GOP convention city and set the presidential primary calendar. Unlike in years past, no White House hopefuls showed up. And the tone was sober about the GOP’s prospects in November; a single sign said: “Playing to win in 2010.” AP Full Story.

Do you think the GOP will post big gains this fall?

Dog’s Best Friend

COEUR d’ALENE - It’s like speed dating, or filling out a profile on a match-making site, except the partner you’re looking for just got off death row.

Oh yeah, this partner isn’t for romance, per se, but a best friend - the kind with four legs.

“I don’t do, ‘put to sleep,’” says Bonnie Whiting, the dog trainer and dog lover who started her own nonprofit, Alternative Rescue, that saves dogs from that euphemism euthanasia, sometimes minutes before the final curtain. “I don’t do death.”

Luckily for 300 dogs, and their matched-up owners, Whiting doesn’t.

That’s how many dogs she has taken in, and adopted out, in the four years she has been running the business at the Coeur d’Alene Pet Resort at 125 E. Hazel Ave. - a 100 percent success rate, she says. Tom Hasslinger, Cda Press Full story.

Who was the best pet who ever owned you?

Plus-size Production

Tracy Turnblad, center, played by Lindsey Hedberg, is surrounded by The Dynamites, a girl group played by, from left, Yudith Burton, Oyoyo Joi Bonner and Antonia Darlene in a scene from the Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre’s production of “Hairspray.”

Roger Welch received some advice on his “Hairspray” role directly from a guy who ought to know: John Travolta.

Travolta, who played the part in the 2007 movie, told Welch to just try to get used to the high heels. They’ll kill you at first.

High heels?

Yes, his character is Edna Turnblad, the plus-size mother of the plus-size heroine, Tracy Turnblad. Welch, the artistic director of the Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre, joins Travolta in the exclusive club of people who have donned the fat-suit and the wig as Edna, a group that also includes Harvey Fierstein, George Wendt and the drag queen Divine. JIm Kershner, SR Read more.

Any Hairspray fans out there?

He banned himself

WELLINGTON, New Zealand – A man who won $44,000 playing poker at an Auckland casino was refused the jackpot because he had banned himself from the premises for gambling too much.

Sothea Sinn, 28, won the prize playing Caribbean stud poker at Auckland’s Skycity Casino on Wednesday but casino staff refused to pay, saying he was banned at his own request, the Dominion-Post newspaper reported. Read more.

I didn’t know you could ban yourself from a casino. I can think of a couple places I’d like to ban myself from, can you?

First Lady underfire for glitzy Spanish vacation

 First Lady Michelle Obama on Glamour's December issue - one of five celebratory Women of the Year covers. (PRNewsFoto/Glamour

As  her husband celebrated his 49th birthday in Chicago with Oprah, first lady Michelle Obama was halfway around the world, on vacation with her 9-year-old daughter, Sasha, in Spain. The two are traveling on what the White House has described as a four-day “private trip” with several Obama family friends along the country’s ritzy southern coast. Holly Bailey, YahooNews.com More here.

Are the Obamas’ separate vaction plans worth the interest they’ve incited?

Summer School

COEUR d’ALENE - If you don’t get good grades, you’ll have to go to summer school. That’s no idle threat for public middle school students in Coeur d’Alene.

The district expanded its summer school offering this year for seventh- and eighth-grade students, largely in response to a new state mandate that Idaho middle schoolers have to meet credit requirements before moving on to their next grade.

“It’s a full credit retrieval-type program for middle school,” said Lake City High School and summer school director, Deanne Clifford.

The eight-week summer school/middle school held at Fernan Elementary ends Monday. There were 38 students who attended and studied math, science, language arts or history. The school was funded through a grant. Maureen Donlan, Cda Press Read more.

Did you or your kids ever have to attend summer school?

Say it isn’t so, Brett…

So, I’ve been waiting and waiting for Brett to say it isn’t so. Ever since a berry picker sent me a “hot tip” regarding one of my FAV NFL quarterback’s alleged photo indisscretion. Sigh.

“Brett Favre may have sent penis pictures to model Jenn Sterger, according to an article at Deadspin. The web site reports that 26-year-old Sterger, a former columnist for Sports Illustrated‘s web site who is no stranger to revealing photo shoots, says the legendary quarterback flirted with her when they were both employed by the New York Jets.” Read more.

Why oh why in the “information age” would ANY athelete or celebrity engage in this kind of foolishness?

City of CdA seeks COL increase

COEUR d’ALENE — The city of Coeur d’Alene is seeking a 1 percent cost of living increase for its 300-plus employees.

If approved, the pay increase would equal $212,317, spread out over its 353 full-time equivalent positions, and must be agreed upon with the city’s three unions.

Meanwhile, the city is seeking a 1.5 percent increase in property taxes — a $237,675 increase.

But one does not have to do with the other, officials said, as the city is contractually obliged to give a 3 percent cost of living increase to its employees every year, while the property tax revenues go toward capital purchases. Tom Hasslinger, Cda Press, Full story

Um. As a freelance writer, I have definite opinions about COL increases. But your opinions may vary?

Rude judge suspended

OLYMPIA — A King County judge who has been compared to TV’s “Judge Judy” should be suspended without pay for five days for being rude to defendants in her courtroom, the state Supreme Court ruled today.

The sharply divided court said that King County District Judge Judith Eiler violated rules requiring judges to be “patient, dignified, and courteous” to defendants, lawyers and others when she used the terms “idiot” and “stupid” when talking to litigants. While five justices signed on for the five-day suspension, four others felt she should have faced a longer suspension. Read more.

Honestly, I know her behaviour is inappropriate, but still… there seems to be a lot of “idiot” litigants out there. Of course, your opinion may differ.

Gray Wolf protection reinstated in Montana and Idaho

A Federal judge ordered endangered species protections reinstated for  gray wolf in Montana and Idaho on Thursday, Aug. 5, 2010

HELENA, Mont. — A federal judge today reinstated Endangered Species Act protections for wolves in Montana and Idaho, saying the government made a political decision in removing the protections from just two of the three states where Rocky Mountain wolves roam.

U.S. District Judge Donald Molloy said in his ruling that the entire Rocky Mountain wolf population either must be listed as an endangered species or removed from the list, but the protections for the same population can’t be different for each state. Read more.

Why can’t they just make up their minds?

Parting Shot: Learning to Swim

Julianne Parsons holds her son Tiger Bartlett, 6 months, during the infant swim class at the Kroc Center in Coeur d’Alene on July 26.

Nine-month-old Austin Barton recently entered the Spokane Valley YMCA pool with his mom, Amy Barton, for a swimming lesson. It wasn’t his first trip to the pool, and he had a lot of fun, splashing in the water and giggling with his mom.

Barton said her mother told her about swimming lessons for babies and it seemed like a good idea for Austin. Lisa Leinberger, SR. Full story

How old were you when you learned to swim? Who taught you?

National Underwear Day Wild Card 8.5.10

I haven’t quite decided how to celebrate National Underwear Day, but please don’t send me yours. Today is also my brother Jon’s, 55th birthday, so I guess I know what to get him.

We had some interesting conversations here yesterday regarding a federal court’s overturning of Prop 8 in California. We also discussed books, baseball and birthers. Really. What more could you ask?

Feel free (but not too free) to let us know you’ll be celebrating Underwear Day or introduce another lively topic here.

 

Shaq signs with Celtics

BOSTON, MA - The Boston Celtics announced today that they have signed free agent center Shaquille O’Neal. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“It is not every day that you can add a player of Shaquille’s caliber to your team,” said Danny Ainge, Celtics President of Basketball Operations. “His past experience speaks for itself and we believe that he is a great fit for our roster.”

O’Neal, a 7‘1” center, posted averages of 12.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.2 blocks and shot 56.6% from the field last season in 53 games for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Posted at nba.com Read more.

Okay, I like basketball, I just don’t follow the NBA that closely. So I was surprised to learn Shaq is still playing. Isn’t he getting close to retirement age?

British X-Files

LONDON (Reuters Life!) – Britain released hundreds of previously secret “UFO files” on Thursday including a letter saying that Winston Churchill had ordered a 50 year cover-up of a wartime encounter between a UFO and military pilot.

The files, published by the National Archives, span decades and contain scores of witness accounts, sketches and classified briefing notes documenting mysterious sightings across Britain.

One Ministry of Defense note refers to a 1999 letter stating that a Royal Air Force plane returning from a mission in Europe during World War Two was “approached by a metallic UFO.” Full story.

Do you believe?

Berry Picker’s Blog Reviewed

Beth B’s blog Accidental Rabbit Trails is reviewed here!

Her blog can be abbreviated A.R.T., and that’s what Beth Bollinger has been doing all along. The author of two published books—she’s also working on screenplays—Beth shares inspirations, observations and a few choice writing tips on the blog.”
Please join me in congratulating Beth :-)


Facebook Discovery 101

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg talks about the social network site’s new privacy settings in Palo Alto, Calif

Click. And there it was, the stuff of nightmares for any spouse, cuckolded or not. Wedding photos. At Walt Disney World, no less, featuring her husband (emphasis mine) literally dressed as Prince Charming. His new wife, a pretty blonde, was a glowing Sleeping Beauty, surrounded by footmen. AP  Full story.

Oh ouch! Have you heard of other unpleasant discoveries made via Facebook?

Blogger Relations

Not only is the blogosphere changing how voters consume information, it’s also creating new jobs in politics, policy and online communications consulting. Although there is still no formal job description for “blogger relations” staffers, these part communications, part research, part online political organizing specialists are a growing industry in the political world.

“It’s becoming as common to have someone managing communications with bloggers as it was to have a press secretary 10 years ago,” said Patrick Hynes, founder and president of Hynes Communications, a social media public affairs agency. Politico.com Read more.

A berry picker sent me me this story and suggested that we open our own Blogger Relations firm, in which we will work from home in our jammies and… uh…help bloggers communicate more better :-)

Seriously. Ten years ago, few knew what a Blog was and now blogs have become a HUGE platform for news, information and marketing.

What are your “must read” blogs?



Senate confirms Kagan as 112th justice

Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan testifies June 30 before the Senate Judiciary Committee.

WASHINGTON — The Senate has confirmed Elena Kagan as the 112th justice and fourth woman to serve on the Supreme Court.

The vote was 63-37 for President Barack Obama’s nominee to succeed retired Justice John Paul Stevens. Washington Sens. Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray, both Democrats, voted to confirm Kagan. Both of Idaho’s Republican senators, Mike Crapo and Jim Risch, voted no. More here.

Thoughts?

Fill in the blank

My favorite time of day is ________

High Noon: Unlikely Friends

Some siblings look so much alike it’s hard to tell them apart. Not my four sons. While there’s a familial resemblance, they aren’t mistaken for each other. Their temperaments and talents are equally dissimilar. But during a conversation with my youngest, I discovered that when comes to choosing friends, my children are very much alike.

One afternoon, Sam slumped into the car after school, his eyes brimming with tears. “Tough day?” I asked.

He nodded.

“Want to talk about it?”

“No,” he said and looked out the window. A few minutes later he burst out, “Everyone’s making fun of me because I hang out with Marcus. They say he’s lame, and if I’m his friend, I’m lame, too!” Cindy Hval, SR Full story.

Did you ever have a friend others labled “lame” or “loser”? What did that friendship teach you?

Alaska’s only Rep. won’t be charged

U.S. Rep. Don Young, R-Alaska, left.

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Federal prosecutors have decided not to pursue an investigation of U.S. Rep. Don Young, R-Alaska, over connections to an Alaska businessman convicted of bribing state lawmakers.

Young, 77, has been under investigation for several years, but documents filed in federal court last year first publicly linked him to a wide-ranging investigation of corruption in Alaska.

Young has denied any wrongdoing and repeatedly declined to speak on the matter, citing advice of his lawyers. AP, Full story.

Young is seeking his 20th term. His Republican challenger said, “A decision that there is a lack of evidence to prosecute Mr. Young is not the same as being cleared of federal corruption.”  Agree or disagree?

Minnick receives builders’ support

Idaho Congressman Walt Minnick, left, shakes hands with Burke Hansen, right, president of Idaho Associated General Contractors, after the group endorsed his re-election bid on Wednesday

BOISE – A building industry group has endorsed U.S. Rep. Walt Minnick in his bid for a second term, saying Idaho’s lone Democrat in Congress has proven himself to be “fair and proactive.”

The Idaho Associated General Contractors, which represents more than 800 companies, has traditionally supported Republicans, including Minnick’s 2008 Republican rival, U.S. Rep. Bill Sali.

In backing Minnick, the group shunned Raul Labrador, the Republican challenger to the 1st Congressional District seat. Labrador, a two-term state lawmaker from Eagle, opposed the governor’s proposal to boost gas taxes and vehicle registration fees to pay for road construction during the 2009 Legislature. AP More.

 

34 wild horses die during BLM roundup

This  2006 photo shows  wild horses grazing near Carson River in Carson City, Nev.

RENO, Nev. – Federal officials confirmed Wednesday that 34 wild horses died or were euthanized during a roundup of animals from parched rangeland in Nevada, sparking fresh criticism from horse protection advocates pressing the Obama administration to suspend such operations.

Bureau of Land Management spokeswoman JoLynn Worley said 1,224 wild horses were collected in pens during the Tuscarora wild horse gather that concluded Monday outside the Rock Creek Herd Management Area, or HMA, in northeastern Nevada’s Elko County.

In addition to the 34 horses that died, two more were put down after they were found injured by a contractor herding more than two dozen wild horses away from a steep cliff, Worley said Wednesday. AP Read More.

Thoughts?

Idaho dropouts could be headed for boot camp

PIERCE, Idaho — High school dropouts could earn their diplomas through a proposed boot camp-style program that’s planned for economically depressed northcentral Idaho.

The Lewiston Tribune reports that the National Guard’s Youth Challenge Program would bring about 60 new jobs to the remote rural community of Pierce.

The area has seen its economic fortunes flag with the decline of the timber industry. Read More.

Good idea?

Carnival Game Yanked

ALLENTOWN, Pa. – The head of an eastern Pennsylvania amusement company has yanked a carnival game in which players shot foam darts at an image resembling President Barack Obama.

Irvin Good Jr. pulled the target-shooting game after receiving a complaint from a Massachusetts woman attending a fair in Roseto, about 65 miles north of Philadelphia. Good said Wednesday his company, Hellertown-based Goodtime Amusements, won’t offer the game again. More.

Poor taste or just fun and games?

 

Berry Pickers Lost and Found

COEUR d’ALENE — Three local men who got lost huckleberry picking in the area of Fernan Saddle area were found after a several hour search Tuesday evening.

Howard Hudson, 62, and Ray Gomez, 67, both of Coeur d’Alene, were found around 8:30 p.m. in the Fernan Creek drainage by Kootenai County Fire and Rescue and Kootenai County Sheriff’s Department deputies, according to the sheriff’s department. A third man, Johnnie Hudson, 55, of Hayden, was located around 6:15 that evening. Hudson had gone looking for the other two men when he noticed they hadn’t returned from picking. Cda Press More here.

Have you ever been lost in the woods or anywhere else?

Festival of Friends

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy performs tonight at The Festival at Sandpoint. Their latest album is a tribute to Cab Calloway; their shows feature plenty of exuberant Calloway-style showmanship.

The Festival at Sandpoint greets some old friends over the next two weeks: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Keb’ Mo’, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and Natalie MacMaster.

That’s a lot of old friends, but when you’ve been around for 28 summers, you can draw from a wide and deep circle.

All of those acts have previously appeared on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille; all of them have wowed the festival’s picnic-blanket crowds on starry summer nights. Jim Kershner, SR. Full story

Have you attended the Festival at Sandpoint? Are you going this year?

CdA Basin cleanup plan has critics

Tim Little stands over a churning tank of mining wastewater as it is aerated and neutralized by the addition of lime at the Central Treatment Plant in Kellogg.

As water percolates through old mine workings in the headwaters of the Coeur d’Alene River, it picks up lead, arsenic, zinc and other heavy metals.

The metals stunt fish populations in 66 miles of the river and its tributaries, with some stretches too toxic to support aquatic life. They also pose potential health risks for people who swim or float down the river, or recreate along the shore, government officials said.

But cleaning up a century’s worth of mininFug pollution in the upper Coeur d’Alene Basin won’t be easy or cheap. Becky Kramer, SR Full story.

The EPA plan faced a skeptical, sometimes hostile crowd last night. Do you think the cost and the timeline are acceptable? What does this say for the future of mining in the Silver Valley?

Generous News

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and investor Warren Buffett have encouraged other billionaires to give at least half their wealth to charity.

SEATTLE – Forty wealthy families and individuals have joined Microsoft Corp. co-founder Bill Gates and billionaire investor Warren Buffett in a pledge to give at least half their wealth to charity.

Six weeks after launching a campaign to get other billionaires to donate most of their fortunes, the chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. released the first list Wednesday of people who have signed what he and Gates call the “giving pledge.” AP Read more.

What percentage of your wealth would you give away, if you could?

Giuliani’s daughter nabbed

Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani is seen Dec. 22 in New York.

NEW YORK – Rudy Giuliani’s daughter was arrested Wednesday on a misdemeanor shoplifting charge at a beauty supplies store after she was seen on security video pocketing makeup, police said.

Caroline Giuliani, a 20-year-old Harvard University student, was seen taking five items worth more than $100 at a Sephora store in Manhattan, New York Police Department spokesman Paul Browne said.

Store managers, after calling police, said they didn’t want to press charges against her, Browne said. But police arrested her on a petty larceny charge, he said. Colleen Long, AP Full Story.

Why do people who have money, shoplift?

Woman dies after being trapped underwater at Horseshoe Lake

HORSESHOE LAKE, Wash. — An Elk, Washington woman is dead after nearly drowning at Horseshoe Lake in Pend Oreille County.

Emergency crews say Rachel Wood, 23, was swimming with ten people across the lake Wednesday afternoon.  Four of them were caught in some lake plants.  Three of the swimmers had to be pulled out by friends Posted at KREM.com More here.

Please be careful out there.

Parting Shot: Shining Examples

The Hudson hoods shine in the sun at the display of autos at Red Lion Hotel at the Park Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2010.

Gene McKay sees beauty in every old part – a rust-colored fender, a worn steering wheel, a tarnished headlight.

When brought together in the restoration of a classic, every discarded piece has a role. McKay should know. He has been rebuilding old cars for much of his life – first as a mechanically gifted teen under the tutelage of a big brother, then as a retired engineer and president of the local chapter of Hudson-Essex-Terraplane Motor Club.

This week Spokane is being treated to a gathering of these cars with a special place in racing history. John Stucke, SR More here.

What’s your favorite classic car?

Presidential Birthday Wild Card 8.4.10

So. What would you give the leader of the free world on his birthday? Something to think about on this Wednesday, six-days-left-on-DFO’s-vacation-not-that-anyone’s-counting-Wild Card.

What do you miss most when Dave is gone? I miss the scanner reports and the Cutline contest. But I’m hanging in there. Raise your hand if you think the SR should buy me a police scanner!

Use any one of the above conversation starters to post your thoughts below. Or. You  know. Wing it :-)

Black members of tea party dispute racist claims

Tea Party Caucus leader Rep. Michele Bachmann, R-Minn., center, speaks at a news conference on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

WASHINGTON – Black members of the tea party movement on Wednesday rejected charges that the group’s activists are racist, saying they oppose President Barack Obama because of his policies not his skin color.

The members gathered at a Washington news conference in the wake of allegations about its rank and file, heightened by the recent split with a Tea Party Express leader who had posted a letter on his blog written from “Colored People” to Abraham Lincoln. The post suggested that black people would choose slavery over having to do real work.

The black members said the racism that has been attributed to the tea party movement came from outsiders who infiltrated the groups to discredit their work and it should be rejected.Philip Elliott, AP Read more. 

Thoughts?

 

Orange TV: Prop 8 declared unconstitutional

OrangeTV on August 04 at 1:54 p.m.

Woo hoo!

This just in, moments ago: In a 136-page ruling, Judge Vaughn Walker has declared Proposition 8, the measure banning same-sex marriage in California, unconstitutional under both the due-process and equal-protection clauses.

http://www.towleroad.com/2010/08/judg…

Cheers to my California friends who no longer have to worry if their marriages are legit in the eyes of the hypocrites and haters!

Read the AP story here.

Thoughts?

Perhaps a Pirate Party?

In this 2007 publicity photo released by Walt Disney Pictures, actor Johnny Depp appears in a scene from “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest.”

Our two-party system is awfully contentious. Perhaps we need a Pirate Party like Sweden?

The eyes of the world are often on Sweden when it comes to file-sharing. It was once the home of The Pirate Bay, and also the place where the first Pirate Party was founded. These two pillars have become increasingly entwined over the past years.

In May 2006, a few months after the Pirate Party was founded, it saw a sharp increase in members after Swedish police raided The Pirate Bay’s servers. As a result the Party gained interest from the mainstream media and at the general elections in the same year it became the third largest party outside parliament. Posted at TorrentFreak.com Read more.

If we do establish a Pirate Party, who should be its leader?

Fill in the blank

The most frightened I have ever been was when _______

A-Rod Homerun #600

Alex Rodriguez connects for his 600th career home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday, Aug. 4, 2010, in New York.

NEW YORK — Alex Rodriguez became the youngest player to hit 600 home runs today, reaching the milestone after a 12-game drought — and exactly three years to the day after his 500th homer — with a drive off Toronto’s Shaun Marcum in the first inning at Yankee Stadium.

Rodriguez lofted a 2-0 pitch over the middle of the plate for his 17th homer of the season, giving the Yankees a 2-0 lead. The ball sailed over the center-field wall and landed in Monument Park, allowing a stadium worker to retrieve it for him. Read more.

Yawn. I’m sorry, baseball bores me to tears. But I’m sure some of you are excited!

High Noon: 30 books everyone should read before 30

Zoe Miller, 16, of San Marino, Calif., holds a dog-eared copy of one of her favorite books, “The Catcher in the Rye.” The book, whose author, J.D. Salinger, died Jan. 27, is widely taught in high schools. Associated Press photos

Nevertheless, the Web cannot replace the authoritative transmissions from certain classic books that have delivered (or will deliver) profound ideas around the globe for generations.

The thirty books listed here are of unparalleled prose, packed with wisdom capable of igniting a new understanding of the world. Everyone should read these books before their thirtieth birthday. Read more.

Included on the list: To Kill a Mockingbird, For Whom the Bell Tolls, War and Peace, One Hundred Years of Solitude, and The Origin of the Species. I hate reading lists like these because now I feel lame. I have NOT read Siddhartha, A Clockwork Orange or many others on this list.

Sigh. Have you read most of these? What would you add to the list?

Task force dispels many IB criticisms

COEUR d’ALENE - The findings of a task force formed in the wake of public controversy regarding the Coeur d’Alene School District’s International Baccalaureate programs were presented Monday to trustees.

“The board distilled all of the input from various constituents within the last few months,” said Superintendent Hazel Bauman. What board members came up with was a series of questions that needed to be answered, Bauman said. Maureen Donlan, Cda Press Full Story.

Will these findings quiet the controversy over the IB program?

Rolling out the red

CHENEY, Wash. — They’re rolling out the red carpet in Cheney today, as in laying down the turf for the Eagle’s new football field! Crews laid out the first few swaths of the vivid turf at 7:30 Wednesday morning.

Former Eastern Washington University offensive lineman Michael Roos donated $500,000 to make the change. He plays for the Tennessee Titans. Posted at KREM.com More here.

My eyes are bleeding. This is awful. Blue turf. Red turf. Am I the only one who wonders why can’t we just have green astroturf the way God intended?

Drawing a line between law and grammar

Bob Strick thought the parking sign near the county courthouse was just a wordy way of saying No Permit Required.

A little punctuation can make a lot of difference.

When Bob Strick and Vicki Tomsha had business at the Spokane County Courthouse on June 2, they drove around from parking lot to parking lot, looking for some free public parking.

Lot after lot required a permit or some cash.

They thought they hit pay dirt in the little lot at Madison Street and College Avenue, just south of the courthouse. Lot D. The sign read: NO PUBLIC PARKING PERMIT REQUIRED. Shawn Vestal, SR. Full story.

A victory for grammar police or a clever way of getting out of a parking ticket?

FBI feuds with Wiki

FBI Director Robert S. Mueller, joined at left by Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, and Acting Assistant Attorney General of the Criminal Division John Richter

The Federal Bureau of Investigation keeps close tabs on the image you see over director Robert Mueller’s shoulder — the official FBI seal. Which is why it has threatened the online encyclopedia Wikipedia with criminal prosecution if it doesn’t remove the image of the seal that it uses to illustrate the FBI’s Wikipedia entry.

As the New York Times reported on Tuesday, the FBI’s deputy general counsel actually sent a letter to Wikipedia [pdf] late last month demanding that the site take down a high-resolution rendering of the seal “because it facilitates both deliberate and unwitting violations” of federal restrictions on the use of the image. John Cook, Yahoo News Read More.

FBI: Legit concern or over-reaction? Btw, the FBI seal is NOT shown in this file photo. I’m not going to get in trouble with the feds.

It’s the President’s party

and he can raise cash if he wants to. Lots of it.

Holly Bailey at Yahoo News reports: “When President Obama celebrates his 49th birthday Wednesday, he won’t be surrounded by his wife and daughters, who are on summer vacation. He’ll spend the night in Chicago, where on Thursday he’ll mark the occasion with “friends” — the kind who are willing to part with $30,000 or so for the chance to see the president presented with a birthday cake.” Read more.

If you had $30,000 to spare who would you like to share a birthday cake with?

Post Falls and St. Maries just say NO

POST FALLS - Voters in the Kootenai County Fire and Rescue district on Tuesday rejected a $2 million bond that would have paid for completing a training facility, a remodel of the administration building and equipment and station upgrades. Brian Walker, Cda Press More here.

ST. MARIES - St. Maries voters on Tuesday turned down a $2.1 million, 30-year bond to expedite installing water meters and develop a second water source on the St. Joe River.The votes were 204 against the proposal and 140 for it. A simple majority (50 percent plus one) was needed for the measure to pass.

“I’m very disappointed that it didn’t pass,” Mayor Tami Holdahl said. “We’ve lost a lot of water rights on the St. Joe that we’ll never get back. I don’t think the people realize what they’ve lost.” Brian Walker, Cda Press More here.

Bond issues seem to be unpopular this year, agree or disagree?

All the Palin news that’s fit to print

Bristol Palin and Levi Johnston, shown in 2008

And just like that, it’s over. Again. Less than a month after announcing they were back together and engaged, Bristol Palin and Levi Johnston have called it quits for the second time. Full story.

But wait. There’s more! In related news, Sarah Palin tells reporter next door to ‘Get a life!”
WASHINGTON (AFP) – Former Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin told “Fox News Sunday” that she and her family have changed their lifestyle because of a reporter living next to her Alaska home, and urged him to “get a life”.

Best-selling author Joe McGinniss rented a house in May immediately next to the former Alaska governor’s home in the town of Wasilla. McGinniss is currently writing a book about Palin.

“We’ve changed our behavior as a result of our new neighbor,” said Palin, considered a political superstar by many on the Republican right. “We just avoid certain angles in the house. And we avoid the front yard.” More here.

How long will it take for the frenzied Palin family stories to subside?

City of Coeur d’ Alene prevails in lawsuit

A second lawsuit filed by Hayden attorney Larry Purviance against the City of Coeur d’Alene, its Police Department, and several of its police officers has been dismissed by U.S. District Court Judge Edward J. Lodge.  The Memorandum Order dismissing the lawsuit, Jason Lee Lorenz v. The City of Coeur d’Alene, et al, was released by the Court on July 30, 2010.  This is the second federal court lawsuit alleging police misconduct filed by Purviance that was dismissed in less than a week.  The lawsuit sought monetary damages from the City of Coeur d’Alene, its Police Department, Police Chief Wayne Longo, Sergeant Jeff Walther, and Officers Tim Hanna, Greg Moore, and Jon Cantrell. Cda Press, More here.

Thoughts?

Parting Shot: Smoky Sun

Don Sausser snapped this gorgeous pic on Monday evening. “Smoke from Canadian forest fires caused the sun to trun red just prior to sunset,” Don says.

Where is your favorite place to watch the sun set?

 

Tuesday Wild Card 8.3.10

My phone has been ringing off the hook. I haven’t felt this popular since I told six guys I’d go to junior prom with them. Alas, it isn’t persuasive prom dates ringing my bell; it’s political candidates. Washington’s primary is August 17  and Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls and Lakeland school districts have the KTEC issue to decide on August 24.

But honestly, leaving me a pre-recording lame message is no way to secure my vote. Just saying.

Post your own musings on this Wild Card.

9 killed in shooting at Connecticut beer distributorship

MANCHESTER, Conn. – A warehouse driver about to lose his job after getting caught on video stealing beer from the distributorship where he worked went on a shooting rampage there Tuesday, killing eight people before committing suicide, authorities said.

At least two people were wounded, one critically, Manchester police said. They were expected to survive.

The gunman, a black man identified by a company executive as Omar Thornton, had complained of racial harassment and said he found a picture of a noose and a racial epithet written on a bathroom wall, the mother of his girlfriend said. Her daughter told her that Thornton’s supervisors told him they’d talk to his co-workers. But a union official said Thornton had not filed a complaint of racism to the union or any government agency. Full story.  Stephen Singer, Associated Press Writer

Senseless and horrible.

Parks sentenced to 40 years for killing pregnant wife

Silas Parks, seen at right in this July 1, 2009, file photo

MOSCOW, Idaho — A Moscow man received the maximum prison sentence Tuesday for killing his pregnant wife and setting their apartment on fire to cover the evidence.

Silas Parks was sentenced Tuesday in Latah County Superior Court to 40 years in prison for two counts of Voluntary Manslaughter. He will be eligible for parole after 20 years served. Posted at KREM.com More here.

Justice served?

Pelosi: “Drain the swamp, we did”

WASHINGTON – Democratic leaders say they’ve emptied the swamp of congressional corruption. Never mind the ethics trials to come for two longtime party members.

“Drain the swamp we did, because this was a terrible place,” Speaker Nancy Pelosi said last week of the Republican rule in the House that ended in January 2007.

Pelosi’s statement might seem odd, but it’s an emerging strategy: Separate Democratic-initiated ethics reforms from the cases of Reps. Charles Rangel, D-N.Y., and Maxine Waters, D-Calif.

Pelosi needs a strategy because Republicans have been adept at jumping on the troubles of Rangel, the former House Ways and Means chairman, and Waters, a senior member of the Financial Services Committee. Larry Margasak, Associated Press Writer  Read more.

Is the swamp drained?

Fill in the blank

If I could be any animal I would be a ______

 

Most Idaho school hitting goals

About two-thirds of the public schools in Idaho are hitting adequate yearly progress goals under the Federal No Child Left Behind Act, the state’s Education Department reported Monday.

The department released scores from the Idaho Standards Achievement Tests that show about 62 percent of state schools reached progress goals during the 2009-2010 school year. Last year, 66 percent of schools hit the benchmark, but the standards became more difficult to reach this year. Full story. Alison Boggs, SR

Are you satisfied with the state of Idaho public schools?

High Noon: Sleeping alone

A recent article in The New York Times points out the trend of more and more couples sleeping in separate rooms. Nearly one in four American couples does so and, according the National Association of Home Builders, it’s expected that 60 percent of custom homes will have dual master bedrooms by 2015. Full story.

According to this article the pursuit of a good night’s sleep can have unhealthy consequences for your relationship: Sleeping apart can contribute to the disconnect that plagues many relationships,” Tessina says. “It just makes it easier to avoid each other, when what’s really needed is connection and contact.

Does your partner snore? How do you deal with it?

Just read the saddest thing

A little box on the back page of the newspaper caught my eye. It reads: “Happy 18th Birthday, dear grandson, Joseph Robert Heggeneier. We have never been able to meet, but I do now and always have loved you and your parents. Love You, Grandma Donna.”

*Gulp* There’s a world of sadness and loss in those 3 sentences.

 

Backfield in Motion

Acute compartment syndrome ended WSU running back James Montgomery’s 2009 season and nearly his football career.

PULLMAN – It’s a big smile.

It starts small but as it grows, it spreads from one side of James Montgomery’s face to the other, making his eyes almost disappear.

And it comes out often.

Why shouldn’t it? James Montgomery is aware how lucky he is.

“I just wake up in the morning and I’m ready to go. I’m just happy I can do it,” says Montgomery, the Washington State University senior who is about to embark on a season he was sure would be spent limping around the sidelines, serving the role of water carrier not ball carrier. Full story. Vince Grippi, SR

I love this story and wish Montgomery well this season, but when I watch guys like this, and see them fall or take a hard hit I cringe. Football players at every level risk a lot every time they take the field. Does that lessen your enjoyment of the game?

Missing Sagle woman found

JoAnn Charlton

Update

The Bonner County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help in locating a missing Sagle woman.

JoAnn Charlton was last seen Monday after leaving her home on Garfield Bay Road to walk her dog, authorities said. Charlton, 53, is described as white, 5-foot-1 and 125 pounds.

Charlton has a history of heart problems.

Anyone with information should call the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office at (208) 265-5525 or call 911. SR

An uncommon bond

Seeing each other in person for the first time Monday in Coeur d’Alene, Cheryl Burroughs-Horne, right, whose daughter Alicia died in 2003, greets Denise Kitchen, an organ recipient who received Alicia’s lungs.

When she opened the envelope, Denise Kitchen saw the enclosed photo before reading the letter she had waited so long to receive. A pretty teenage girl with freckles across her nose smiled up at her.

It was a portrait of Alicia Burroughs-Horne, the girl whose untimely death in 2003 saved Kitchen’s life.

“I started crying,” said Kitchen.

The 64-year-old retired teacher’s assistant from Custer, S.D., received a double lung transplant on Aug. 4, 2003. The day before, they were Alicia’s lungs. Full story. Kevin Graman, SR

Does your driver’s license designate you as an organ donor? Why or why not?

EOB: New voter ID law in effect for today’s votes

Today is Election Day in a number of communities around Idaho, from Canyon County’s jail bond to various highway districts and other districts around the state, and it’s the first election for which Idaho’s new law will be in effect requiring voters to show photo I.D. at the polls. “Although this is a new step in voting procedures, it is not an onerous requirement,” said Idaho Secretary of State Ben Ysursa. More here - Betsy Russell, Eye on Boise

Judge ok’s challenge to health reform law

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration lost an early legal skirmish over the new health care law Monday when a federal judge declined to dismiss the state of Virginia’s lawsuit challenging a key part of the landmark legislation.

U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson did not rule on the central issue in the lawsuit brought by Virginia Attorney General Kenneth Cuccinelli – the new law’s requirement that most Americans buy health insurance beginning in 2014.

But the judge swept aside the Obama administration’s efforts to quash the legal contest in its infancy, ruling that the state of Virginia has the right to sue. And, citing the sweep of the new law, he appeared to open the door to a potentially drawn-out legal battle over a core tenet of the health overhaul. Read more.

Thoughts?

Unlikely drug addict

Carlson

Jerry Carlson rose quickly through the ranks of the insurance industry, opening his own office as a young man and attracting some of the biggest accounts in Kootenai County.

His prominence brought wealth – wealth he shared with local charities and used to support his beloved alma mater, Coeur d’Alene High School.

But he also used that money to feed a cocaine addiction he described as “outrageous” Monday in front of a federal courtroom packed with supporters, many of them prominent North Idaho business owners. Read more. Meghann Cuniff, SR

Addiction is no respecter of persons. Are you surprised when the addictions of prominent people are exposed?

Obama takes credit for ending combat mission in Iraq

WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama on Monday declared that at month’s end the U.S. will end its combat mission in Iraq “as promised and on schedule,” and he pledged to veterans, “Your country is going to take care of you when you come home.”

Obama’s remarks were designed to remind voters that he’s fulfilling his pledge to end the U.S. war in Iraq , one of the biggest issues of his 2008 election victory. He’s also trying to rouse voters to support Democrats in congressional and state elections this November.

His remarks were somewhat muted however, as the U.S. transition occurs without a new Iraqi coalition government in place five months after elections were held there and growing doubts back home about the U.S. war in Afghanistan , where violence is at an all time high. Full story.  Margaret Talev, McClatchy Newspapers

Legit credit or campaign rhetoric?

The redcoats are coming?

The Spokesman-Review A Spokane Police Department shooting target  shows hits in the “T-box” zone.

One June morning last year, Jack Dailey drove from his home in North Carolina’s Piedmont country, through verdant, hilly farmland to a rifle range near the town of Ramseur. Eleven men and a woman had mustered there for a weeklong boot camp run by the Appleseed Project, a group Dailey started that is dedicated to teaching every American how to fire a bullet through a man-size target out to 500 yards. So far Appleseed has taught 25,000 people to shoot; 7,000 more will learn by the end of this year. Its instructors teach this skill not for the purpose of hunting or sport. They see marksmanship as fundamental to Americans’ ability to defend their liberty, whether against foreigners or the agents of a (hypothetical) tyrannical government. Read more. Mattathias Schwartz, NYTimes.com

H/t Nick Adams

Thoughts?

Parting Shot: I’m itching already

A Taiwanese woman has taken a sizeable bite out of Taiwan’s mosquito population, and won a 3,000 US dollar cash prize, by catching around 4 million of the bloodsuckers in just one month.

Huang Yu-yen, from southern Taiwan’s Yunlin county, beat 72 rivals with a catch weighing in at more than 1.5 kilogrammes (3lbs 5oz), competition organisers Imbictus International, a company that makes insect traps, said.

The haul was more than double that of her nearest rival. Posted at Breitbart.com Read more.

No word on what she did with the 4 million mosquitos. Have you been bitten by one yet this summer?

Jerry Carlson sentenced to 27 months

A former Coeur d’Alene High School booster of the year and prominent insurance agent was sentenced today to 27 months in federal prison in an undercover cocaine sting. Jerry S. Carlson, cried as he addressed U.S. District Judge Justin Quackenbush this morning in Coeur d’Alene as about 70 supporters packed the courtroom, including Lola Hagadone. Carlson pleaded guilty in January to attempting to possess 500 or more grams of cocaine with intent to deliver. Federal sentencing guidelines called for him to serve 37 months to 46 months behind bars, but Quackenbush ruled Carlson was not a distributor and shortened his sentence by 10 months. He also ordered Carlson to partake in a prison drug program, not as a patient but as a counselor or adviser to incoming addicts. That program, coupled with expected credit for good time, could reduce Carlson’s sentence to just over a year behind bars, said his lawyer, Jim Siebe. Siebe had asked for probation, but Quackenbush made it clear at the beginning of the hearing that Carlson was prison bound. More here.

Thoughts?

Monday Wild Card 8.2.10

Don’t know about you but I had a wild weekend. From Huckster Happy Hour on Friday, to my 79-year-old mom falling and breaking her ankle, to my 20-year-old son graduating from Master’s Commission, a year-long ministry program.

I am too pooped for Monday, but it showed up anyway. I’ll try to collect my thoughts, but please post your own on this Wild Card.

Inmate who wanted death penalty linked in new slaying

RICHMOND, Va. (Aug. 1) — A Virginia inmate who warned prosecutors he would kill again if not given the death penalty for strangling his cellmate was involved the death of another inmate, authorities said.

Wise County Commonwealth’s Attorney Ron Elkins confirmed late Saturday that Robert Gleason Jr. was “involved” in the death of 26-year-old Aaron Alexander Cooper, though Elkins refused to elaborate. Gleason, who was already serving a life term for murder before killing his cellmate last year, has not been charged in the death. Read more. Posted at aolnews.com

Should inmates who ask for the death penalty be granted their request?

Another Day Another ethics charge

WASHINGTON — A House panel announced today that it had charged Rep. Maxine Waters with violating ethics rules, setting the stage for a second election-season trial for a longtime Democratic lawmaker and adding to the party’s political woes.

The charges against Waters, a 10-term California congresswoman, focus on whether she broke the rules in requesting federal help for a bank where her husband was a board member and owned stock. She immediately denied the charges. Read more.

Are politicians getting more unethical or is this same old, same old?

Labrador moves campaign office to Boise

BOISE — U.S. House hopeful Raul Labrador’s cash-strapped campaign has moved to downtown Boise to conserve resources, setting up a new headquarters outside the congressional district he wants to represent.

The penny-saving move underscores Labrador’s difficulty in fundraising compared to his Democratic rival, U.S. Rep. Walt Minnick, who has more than $1 million on hand and holds a 16 to 1 cash advantage. Full story.

What do you think of Labrador’s odds in this election?

Fill in the blank

If I could do one thing over again, I would ______

High Noon: Camping

Pam Heron, also known as the “Queen of Pamelot,” stands in the doorway of her 1965 Shasta compact travel trailer on  Saturday in Riverside State Park.

BOISE — The recession doesn’t appear to have hurt RV camping in Idaho, with private and state-run campgrounds that offer services to motor homes reporting rising bookings and robust business.

The Idaho Statesman reports camper registrations at Kampgrounds of America climbed 7 percent between May 1 and July 15, compared with the same period last year. More here.

Camping: RV/trailer, tent, cabin or not at all?

Red Hot?

The Red Sox’s David Ortiz watches the flight of one of his home runs.

The Red Sox may have a sexy advantage:

“The Lady in Red” is famous in movies, books and music, but men in red turn out to be just as alluring, according to a new study that found men who wear red are more attractive and sexually desirable to women. The study, published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, determined that red makes men appear more powerful. Read more. Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News

Do you find the opposite sex more attractive when they wear certain colors?

Idaho’s Forgotten War

COEUR d’ALENE — It was the winter of 2006 when documentary filmmaker Sonya Rosario received an urgent phone call from Valerie Fast Horse, a member of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe.

Rosario, of Meridian, learned from Fast Horse that then 73-year-old Amy Trice, former chairwoman of the Kootenai Tribe, had double pneumonia.

“She said that if we lost this voice, Idaho would lose its history and the Kootenai Tribe would lose its history,” Rosario said.

Rosario seized the opportunity to document what happened in Bonners Ferry on Sept. 20, 1974, the day Trice led her people to officially declare war against the US Government in order to save them from poverty, isolation and possible extinction. Maureen Donlan, Cda Press, Full Story.

Facinating story. How interested are you in Idaho history?

Court OK’s fetus wrongful death car crash suit

In what looks to become a slippery slope, a Wisconsin 4th District Court of Appeals gave the green light for a man to sue his unborn child’s mother’s insurance company for wrongful death, after the woman’s negligent driving played a part in a car accident. Following the accident, the mother gave birth to a stillborn fetus.

Shannon Tesar, the father of the fetus, is seeking damages from the mother’s insurance company based on the death of his unborn child, reports the Associated Press. Tesar’s case was originally denied when the lower court ruled that the mother did not owe a legal duty to the fetus. The reversal has brought up some real concerns that the court is opening the door to other types of suits against mothers for nearly any action that can harm unborn children, such as poor dietary habits. Full story. Laura Strachan, Findlaw.com

Thoughts?

Cruising along

COEUR d’ALENE — It’s now officially been 42 years since the cruise boat known as Mish-an-nock slid into the Spokane River and headed upstream to Lake Coeur d’Alene for the first time.

The two-deck excursion boat was 65 feet long, 33 feet wide, and was powered by twin 125-horsepower Caterpillar engines. It was crafted with 58 tons of steel by well-known tugboat maker Howard J. Dolph, and launched from Dolph Boat Works in Post Falls. Dolph’s brothers, Scott and Rich, helped build it.

The boat got its name from a group of Post Falls Camp Fire Girls. They selected the name — meaning “morning star” — from a book of Kalispel Tribe of Indian names, said Dorothy “Faye” (Dolph) Higbee, of Post Falls. David Cole, Cda Press, Read more.

Have you ever taken a lake cruise aboard the Mish-an-nock? What was the occasion?

 

cdajim: The Palins are coming!

 

cdajim:The Palins are coming to Coeur d’Alene! Jim and Faye Palin, Todd’s parents and the in-laws of Sarah, will be the featured speakers at the Coeur d’Alene Rotary Club this Friday, noon, at the CdA Resort. It should be interesting.

How interested are you  in hearing what Todd Palin’s parents have to say?

High tech Boy Scout anniversary

Hunter Rich, a scout from Spokane, disassembles an old computer at a display at the Boys Scouts of America Centennial celebration Saturday, May 22, 2010

BOWLING GREEN, Va. – More than 45,000 Boy Scouts and scoutmasters gathered Saturday evening for the 2010 National Scout Jamboree as the Boy Scouts of America celebrated its 100th anniversary – with technical upgrades such as Wi-Fi.

Over the past week thousands of Scouts trekked from around the world to Fort A.P. Hill in Virginia to take part in the ultimate summer camp.

William D. Boyce, the founder of the Boy Scouts, couldn’t have imagined some of the changes as the organization adjusts to the digital age. Among them is Wi-Fi. Thanks to AT&T, Scouts at the jamboree have unlimited Wi-Fi access and can call home or update their Facebook accounts. Full story.

Were you a Boy Scout? If so, what did you learn from scouting?

Israel’s Immigration Issue

Children of foreign workers are seen Sunday in Tel Aviv, Israel. Chinese construction workers, Filipino elder-care aides, Thai farmers and others began arriving in Israel in the 1990s.

JERUSALEM – Israel moved Sunday to deport the offspring of hundreds of migrant workers, mostly small children who were born in Israel, speak Hebrew and have never seen their parents’ native countries.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the new policy was intended to stem a flood of illegal aliens, whose children receive state-funded education and health care benefits, and to defend Israel’s Jewish identity. Read more.

Thoughts?

Sockeye surprise

Sockeye salmon ride home in a fisherman’s cooler from the Brewster Pool, the stretch of the Columbia River near Brewster, Wash., on July 22. Sockeye are generally smaller than other varieties but still popular for their flavor.

BREWSTER, Wash. – A record run of sockeye salmon surging up the Columbia River this summer has delighted folks in this apple-growing region just east of the Cascades.

”We caught seven yesterday, five the day before,” said Kimberlee Ann Woods, of Ephrata, Wash., while waiting to launch her boat at Brewster in late July.

More than 386,300 sockeye have been counted this summer at Bonneville Dam east of Portland. Mike Prager, SR, Full Story.

What are you fishing for and where?

Hobbit longing satisfied with Malibu and Hong Kong

OTV reviews Brycies Cheesesteaks & Subs:

Deep within both my soul and my tummy, I may not ever fully get over the tragic loss of the longtime Coeur d’Alene sandwich institution the Sunshine Trader, which for decades served enormous, legendary Tolkien-themed sandwiches both in a now-demolished building near City Park and, in its final years, in the Ironwood hospital district.

Since childhood, I’d been hopelessly enamored with the “Hobbit,” which was the finest turkey/cream cheese/cranberry sauce sandwich in the entire history of the universe, period. Patrick Jacobs, Handle Extra, Read More.

What’s your favorite sandwich?

Idaho Round Up

Golf lessons in the digital age: Jacob Livingston, Handle Extra:  With the crack of the club, Larry Kison watched as his golf ball plunged into a patch of tall grass just beyond the tee box. That was typical, the 73-year-old Moses Lake resident and avid golfer said, whenever he tees off with a driver.

Business News: Nils Rosdahl, Handle Extra

Idaho sex offender law upheld: Handle Extra: BOISE – Idaho’s sex offender registration law may have different requirements for out-of-state offenders, but it’s constitutional, according to the Idaho Supreme Court.

Firefighters donate sweat and skills, Patty Huchens, Handle Extra: When members of the Sandpoint Fire Department stepped forward last year to donate hours – which translated into days – of their personal time to benefit local charities, members of this community were extremely grateful.

 

Sandpoint: All Aboard

Riders Ken Johnsen, left, and Phil Edminster, in Gonzaga shirt, next to wife, Sharon, get a program from Joe Legner, center, as they settle in their dome car for a recent  trip to Montana. They rode a special  train assembled near Sandpoint for the attendees from the Northern Pacific Railway Historical Association convention in Spokane.

About 50 trains chug through Sandpoint each day, night and day.

Almost all carry cargo – grain, windmill turbines, airplane fuselages, even Barnum and Bailey circus elephants.

Near midnight, and then again at 2:32 a.m., Amtrak’s “Empire Builder” drops and collects passengers; Sandpoint boasts the only Amtrak stop in Idaho.

“Railfans” from throughout the world travel to Sandpoint to train-watch and photograph trains roaring across the bridge over Lake Pend Oreille. It’s a magnificent meeting of water, mountain and machine. Rebecca Nappi, SR.  Full Story.

I have never ridden a train. Have you?

 

About this blog

D.F. Oliveria is a columnist and blogger for The Spokesman-Review. Huckleberries Online was judged the best 2008 Idaho newspaper blog by the Idaho Press Club. And the best 2007 news blog in the Pacific Northwest by the Society for Professional Journalist. Print Huckleberries is a past winner of the Herb Caen Memorial Column contest by the National Association of Newspaper Columnists. The Readership Institute of Northwestern University cited this blog as a good example of online community journalism.

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