Surely, Politics Can Wait At Least A Decent Interval
Tony Paquin ticks me off. I don’t mind that the Coeur d’Alene businessman is nursing an impossible dream of knocking off two-term U.S. Rep. Helen Chenoweth in a Republican primary in Idaho, of all places. But I do care that he already is blasting Give-‘em-Helen, which means the race is on, whether I like it or not. I don’t. And I don’t think I’m alone. In fact, I probably have a greater tolerance for political horse manure than the average guy because I’m paid to pay attention. Still, the 1996 campaign for offices of all stripes was nasty. Since then, I’ve enjoyed the break from political ads and yard signs. Now, Chenoweth, who repeatedly has promised to run for only three terms, has responded to Paquin by sending her staff aides into the field to meet the public and address concerns. How about a cease-fire until the fair?
Bonner County School Board disses public
After weeks of turmoil, Bonner County School Board members should be looking for ways to appease their unhappy patrons. But no-o-o-o. The trustees guaranteed themselves trouble next Tuesday by refusing a constituent request to move a meeting to discuss cuts in extracurricular activities. Concerned citizens don’t think the middle school multipurpose room is large enough to handle the expected crowd. They’re right. Recently, an incredible 1,300 residents appeared at a town hall meeting to harangue Superintendent Max Harrell’s plan to balance the budget by slapping a 50 percent cap on extracurricular expenses. They like their sports, band and club activities up there. The Sandpoint High School gym would accommodate a huge crowd, but Chairwoman Rebecca Hawkins has dug in. Those left out in the cold next week might want to remember that on May 20 when Hawkins and trustee Willard Osmunson seek re-election.
Howman reins in great expectations
Now we know what Robert Howman meant when he promised to tell and answer all. Remember him? Howman’s the special education director for Bonner County schools who was caught on tape fretting about his office’s budget numbers. Quoth he for posterity: “If we don’t straighten this out, we are going to be in deep (expletive deleted), big-time.” In a press release, Howman now says he will discuss the results of an office audit at a news conference - by invitation only. The proposed get-together - as yet without a date or a time - will be held in the Special Services Office, which, of course, limits the size of the peanut gallery. Seems Bonner County school officials have learned at least one important lesson from all their troubles. In Bonner County, if you invite the public, it will come.
, DataTimes MEMO: D.F. Oliveria’s “Hot Potatoes” runs Tuesdays and Thursdays. You can comment on the items by calling (800) 344-6718 or (208) 765-7125 or by sending e-mail to daveo@spokesman.com.