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Thunderboat return all wet

Ahh, the roar of unlimited hydroplanes ripping across the north end of Lake Coeur d’Alene, I remember it well. Having moved to Coeur d’Alene in 1963, we also were able to experience the crowd riots on Sherman Avenue and the trashing of Tubbs Hill by thousands of spectators.

The recent unlimited hydroplane “exhibit,” cosponsored by the Museum of North Idaho with roaring hydroplanes on the lake, is a not too subtle ploy to once again build public support to bring back hydroplane races to Lake Coeur d’Alene. After all, it’s been some 43 years since the last race and there is now a new segment of our city population that has not experienced the problems associated with these hydroplane races.

The city ordinance, passed by referendum, prohibits unlimited hydroplane races on our lake, and needs to remain in force to preserve the quality of the lake, the environment on Tubbs Hill and the public safety of our downtown.

Mark E. Weadick

Coeur d’Alene

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