Seahawks Fall To 0 And 2

The Seattle Seahawks showed that they could be as dysfunctional as any other Washington sports team after they blew a 14 point lead to the struggling San Francisco 49ers. The loss was at home and to a 49ers team lead by second string quarterback JT O'Sullivan who had over 300 yards passing against what has been billed as a strong Seahawk defense.

Washington Democrats Meet At Tulalip

The Washington State Democratic Central Committee made history this weekend with it's choice of meeting places. The brand new Tulalip Resort and Casino was the site, marking the first time that the committee has met at a tribal hotel.

Democratic National Chair Howard Dean, on a campaign swing through the Northwest spoke at the meeting. The committee also voted to keep it's sole endorsement of Randy Dorn for the Non-Partisan position of State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Washington's Newest Democratic National Committee Representative Lona Wilbur, a member of the Sinomish Tribe, also received special recognition.

A Moment Of Silence

We pay tribute to Skagit County Deputy Anne Jackson--an American Hero.

The 1977 song "Baracuda" by Heart has created controversy. Lead singer Ann Wilson and sister Nancy, were angry that the song was used at the Republican Convention without the permission of the group. However, in an interview on Seattle's KZOK with morning talk show host Bob Rivers, former Heart guitarist
Roger Fisher did not seem to mind the GOP's taking liberties with the song.

Seinfeld And Gates In Windows Commercial

It's getting bad reviews but I like it. Reminds me of when we saw Bill at a movie theatre in Bellevue many years ago.

Walla Walla V--One For The Road At Cougar Crest

We left Walla Walla on Labor Day, but first we had a Picnic at old Fort Walla Walla Park. Fort Walla Walla probably the city's crown jewel as far as parks go. It has a Military Cemetery, a Viet Nam Memorial and a museum. It is spacious and very rural, being on the outer west edge of town.

On the way out of town we stopped at the Cougar Crest Winery. They are putting the finishing touches on a brand new tasting room on Highway 12 (a designated driver is suggested). It is a very strategic location as it is the first Winery you see coming in from Seattle, except for the two in nearby Lowden. Cougar Crest was started by a couple of WSU graduates, one a pharmacist and the other, a veterinarian. No telling on whether they will change the name after the Coug's embarrassing 66-3 loss to the California Golden Bears this last weekend.

Seahawks Start 2008 Season With Thud

In what certainly can be described as a nightmare year in the Seattle sport scene, the Seattle Seahawks provided no relief losing to the Buffalo Bills 34-10 in the season opener. With Matt Hasselbeck returning after missing two weeks of practice and wide receivers Bobby Engram and Deion Branch out with injuries, the Seahawk's offence was not able to get off of the ground. Marshawn Lynch lead Buffalo with 76 yards and one touchdown.

Palin Video Should Be Sign Of Concern

I can respect Sarah Palin for holding to her religious beliefs, but this video shows that she has no trouble blending them into her political agenda and visa versa. Thank you to Tod Goldberg for this video.

Walla Walla IV--Walking Wine Tour

My cousins checked in to the Whitman Hotel for their last 2 nights in Walla Walla, Kevin and I began a walking tour of the wineries. Our first stop was the Hiney Winery on 2nd Street. It was based on a radio bit by renown DJ Rick Dees 25 years ago. The winemaker, Tom Hodgins, actually has owned radio stations in Walla Walla and had acquired the rights to name his product after Dees's

fictitious winery.

We met up with the girls (my wife and cousin C) at the Hiney and walked to the Spring Valley Winery, which was owned by the Derby family. Before the days of Drew Bledsoe (whom I have read also owns a winery in Walla Walla) Dean Derby was one of the few Walla Wallans who played in the NFL. Derby went to the University Of Washington and played professionally for the Minnesota Vikings and the Pittsburgh Steelers. There is quite a presentation at the tasting room where they give the winerie's entire history.

Still on foot, we turned the corner onto Main Street and went to the Waterbrook, which was one of Walla Walla's older wineries. We looked around, but did not participate in the tasting.

Our final tour stop was the Sapolil cellars. We sat with some other people at a piano bar where the owner was talking about all sorts of area history. We enjoyed the wine there although noone played the piano, we decided that it was a delightful place.

Walla Walla III--Bergevin-Lane Winery

We began wine tasting Saturday afternoon at the Bergevin-Lane Winery, west of downtown Walla Walla. It is run by Walla Walla native Annette Bergevin and Amber Lane. Bergevin made her mark in area high school athletics and is a Washington State graduate. Their Calico Red is one of my favorite wines and I try buy a bottle whenever I'm down there.

Walla Walla Part II

We arrived in Walla Walla Saturday night and went to the fair with Cherie, Kevin, Steve and Dawn. The Walla Walla Fair, formerly the Southeastern Washington Fair And Frontier Days, takes place over the Labor Day Weekend.

You can't help but love this song, it also has a special place in Washington politics.

Labor Day Weekend In Walla Walla

We are looking at Walla Walla's number one landmark--the Whitman Hotel. When I was born in Walla Walla, it was the tallest building in town. 51 years later, it still is. It has been through many incarnations, originally known as "The Marcus Whitman" it evolved in the early 70s into the Eddie Mays Inn. When that ran it's course, Stewart Anderson ran it as the Black Angus, with a remodeled look. The latest addition of "The Whitman" is part of a remodeling effort by Walla Walla entrepreneur Kyle Mussman.
I touched a little about the changes Walla Walla has gone through in the last ten years, what I would like to talk about in the next few posts is a look at some of those changes. Deb and I made the five hour drive last weekend and met up with my cousin and her husband who also journeyed down from Seattle. My brother Steve and his girlfriend Dawn still live there.

New Banner Picture

Lake Wilderness is in the center of Maple Valley. The park surrounding it is the hub of summer activities in the area. It has become the banner picture for this blog.

Racist Obama Three Dollar Bills Distributed At Monroe Fair

After complaining, rightfully so, about an advertisement for Governor Gregoire using the Sopranos theme to smear Dino Rossi, who is of Italian heritage, the Republicans have shown hypocracy by distributing phony 3 dollar bills showing Barack Obama in an African headdress with a racist caption at the Evergreen State Fair in Monroe. The chair of the Snohomish County Republicans has apologized.

McCain Choses Sarah Palin

John McCain, desperate to steal thunder from Barack Obama, has picked Alaska Governor Sarah Palin to be his running mate. Obama delivered arguably one of the best speeches in American history, however, McCain aparently is trying to woo Democrats angered over Hilary Clinton being skipped. Palin is Pro-Life, so it is doubtful that many Hilary supporters will crossover, in fact some may stay home altogether. Remember, George W. Bush did not win much support from the Black community after picking Colin Powell to be the first black Secretary Of State.

Seahawks Finish Exhibition Season With Win

The Seattle Seahawks finished their pre season on a winning note, beating old AFC Nemesis Oakland 23-16. The victory, just 4 days after the loss to San Diego, was costly as the 'Hawks lost
Ben Obomanu. T.J. Duckett(pictured above), a first year Seahawk and designated short yard specialist, ran for 71 yards and 2 touchdowns.

Move Over, Hilary!

Michelle Obama is a force to be reckoned with.

Chargers Edge Seahawks

Deb and I watched the third Seahawk exhibition game at The Joker. The Joker is a Beer Joint (or Sportsbar as they're now called) on the Sammamish Plateau. It was an exciting game but the Chargers beat the 'Hawks by one point.

Ted Kennedy Addresses The Democratic Convention

Senator Kennedy's endorsement of Barack Obama earlier this year was a turning point in the race.

We Will Be In Walla Walla This Weekend

Joe Biden Is Democrat's Pick For VP

Barack Obama has picked Delaware Senator Joe Biden as his Vice Presidential nominee.

Seattle Times Nails Dino Rossi

The normally Conservative Seattle Times has called out Dino Rossi for voting in favor of a gas tax that he blames the governor for. Check here.

Crossroad UPS Store Featured In Connection

The Neighborhood Crossroads paper "The Crossroads Connection" did a feature on our store. Here I am with my wife, father-in-law, and of course, Rusty.

Lieberman Will Speak To GOP

When Senator Joe Lieberman was the Democratic Nominee for Vice President in 2000, many thought that he was much too kind to opponents like Dick Cheney in debates. Now our misgivings have come to pass as Lieberman will be a speaker at the GOP Convention. He is also a leading candidate to become McCain's VP.

Two Potential VP Candidates Debate Iraq Policy

This interview was set up probably figuring that Lieberman and Bayh would be on the respective Republican and Democratic tickets. Lieberman's support for the Iraq invasion is astonishing.

Is Rossi Fit To Be Governor?

While I take videos off "youtube" with a grain of salt, I think anyone planning to vote for change for the sake of change should study Rossi and what he stands for.

Washington State Primary Tommorrow

Just a reminder to mail in your ballots or go down to the polls as Washington's first "Top Two Primary" or Cajun' Primary (Louisiana has chosen this way for years) takes place tomorrow (August 19th). According to the Daily Olympian, Secretary Reed has predicted a turnout of 46 percent.

Linda Woods Feature

(cousins Linda and Karen)
Writer Jane Devin features my cousin, Linda Woods in her blog. Linda's Journal Revolution
blog which is also credited to sister Karen, is a worthy read in it's own.

We Were At Qwest For Pre-Season Victory

Seahawk Rookie Justin Forsett was impressive as the Hawks beat the Chicago Bears 29-26. Deb and I were in attendance at Qwest Field were the crowd was so juiced, you would never know that it was a preseason game with no bearing in the standings. Forsett finished the game with 136 yards.
The Bears had a chance to win the game on a last minute field goal, which barely missed. The game went into overtime. The Seahawks got first possession by winning the coin toss and were able to march down the field and set up a 36 yard field goal by Seahawk kicker Brandon Coutu.

Sadamania has gripped the Barer blogosphere, I thought this piece that I found on "youtube" was appropriate for a final tribute.

KBSG Gone--KIRO Newsradio Begins Simulcasting At 97.3

KIRO news radio has increased it's reach by simulcasting on the FM band. Long the voice of news, talk, and sports in the region, KIRO is arguably Seattle's most successful radio station. That point was driven home in 2004, when morning host Dave Ross ran as a Democrat for Congress. KIRO has traditionally broadcast at 710 on the AM dial. It will continue that spot and will also be heard at 97.3 on FM. Oldies station KBSG, which was KIRO's sister station, is no longer in existence.

Maple Valley's Brandi Carlile Does Car Commercial

Brandi Carlile sings her hit "The Story" in this commercial for GM cars.

Sada Jacobson Wins Silver In Beijing

pictured: Sada, Mariel, and Becca

The US Women's fencing team swept Gold, Silver, and Bronze in the Olympic Saber competition. A notable feat, considering that fencing is a sport that is more popular abroad.

Portland's Mariel Zagunis won took her second Gold Medal by defeating Dunwoody Georgia's Sada Jacobson. Sada came back and beat Ukrainian Sofia Velakaya for second place and the Silver Medal. Becca Ward, who is also from the Portland area, also beat Velakaya to take the Bronze. Jacobson was the only one of the medal winners not from Oregon, however her Great Grandmother, who was my Grandmother Barer's sister, did live in Portland.

Rough Water For John Edwards

John Edwards personal troubles remind me of the movie"Beau James" where Bob Hope played the colorful New York mayor Jimmy Walker. Attending a baseball game, Walker was asked about a scandal he was involved with. His comment was "I hope the Yankees win."

My Brother Steve Gets His 15 Minutes

Steve and Dawn went to a Boxing match at the Emerald Queen Casino and were able to get on TV, according to this youtube clip off his blog. You can click here to see it, don't blink.

It brought back fond memories of when Deb and I went to the Space Needle for New Year's Eve and managed to get on camera.

Seahawks Start Exhibition Season

The Seattle Seahawks will play their first pre-season game tomorrow. The 'Hawks will take on the Minnesota Vikings in the Metro dome in Minneapolis. The game will start a 5:00 pdt.

Garage Sale In Maple Valley!

Residents of Maple Valley, Covington, and Black Diamond can find some great deals at a one day multi-family garage sale this Saturday August 9th in the Belmont Woods neighborhood of Maple Valley. The sale begins at 10:00 am at 23831 SE 246th Street. You can find toys, furniture, books, and much much more!

Movie Review: Swing Vote

I don't know if the movie "Swing Vote" could have been made before the 2000 election, but after unlikely photo-finishes in both the Gore-Bush race, and a couple of statewide races here in Washington, you may be more likely to willingly suspend your sense of disbelief.
The movie occurs during a presidential campaign. Bud Johnson (Kevin Costner) is a happy-go-lucky drinker who has a low paying job in a factory and is pretty much raised by his grade school age daughter, Molly who is serious minded and scolding. Bud has a heart, but always seems to miss the mark when it comes to responsibility. Politically savvy Molly sneakily registers Bud to vote, but politics do not show up on Bud's radar screen. He does promise to vote, but when a night of heavy drinking gets in the way, Molly sneaks a vote in for President in Bud's name. A glitch however stops it from counting. When the race ends up in a dead heat, all attention turns to Bud. He soon become a national celebrity and the results are hilarious.
Both presidential camps go to hilarious attempts to capture Bud's vote, that is where the real satire comes in. Both candidates seem sincere, but are influenced by there handlers. Kelsey Grammer plays the incumbent presidential candidate Andrew Boone, Stanley Tucci, plays his handler loosely based on Karl Rove. Dennis Hopper plays the Democratic candidate, Donald Greenleaf, with his handler played hilarously by Nathan Lane.

Welcome To Seattle, Blue Angels!

Griffey May Be Traded To White Sox

ESPN Radio's Mike Greenberg And Mike Golick are reporting a possible deal that would send Ken Griffey, Jr from the Cincinnatti Reds to the Chicago White Sox. Griffey is a 5/10 player meaning that he has to approve any trade that the Reds involve him in.

Funny Political Ad

Will Dino Rossi have an open adminstration? Not according to this ad.

Niehaus Inducted

If you recorded the Hall Of Fame induction ceremonies, Dave Niehaus should apear at 107 or one hour and seven minutes past the beginning. Congratulations to Dave Niehaus!

Speaking Of Northwest Broadcast Greats...

I found this several months ago, and promised myself that I would not post it until the Hydros came here. I cheated a little, but with the torchlight parade in Downtown Seattle and the Tri Cities race Sunday, I think it's OK to put it up now.
The KIRO 7 TV crew honors Pat O'Day for his 40th consecutive Seafair broadcast.

Dave Niehaus Will Enter Baseball Hall Of Fame This Weekend

Listening to either of these classic Dave Niehaus calls can give a Mariner fan chills. But Dave Niehaus who called the very first pitch in Mariner history has gone through some bad times too and unlike players who have their slumps, Niehaus is great in every game.
This weekend Niehaus is in Cooperstown, New York where this weekend, he will receive the Ford C. Frick award and be enshrined in the Baseball Hall Of Fame.

For My Brother Steve

Steve also has a birthday comming up--Here's Great White and "Once Bitten-Twice Shy"

Mariners Will Be On KIRO Next Season

The Mariners are returning to KIRO 710 next season. Since the team picks the announcers, the only real difference to fans is that you push one button to get baseball,instead of another. To stations, though it can mean millions more in advertising. If you are a Mariner fan, chances are that if you turn on your car radio in the morning after a game, it will be tuned into KOMO. This is a real boost for one of the sought after audiences in the business. KOMO 1000 is in the last year of a six year agreement with the M's. KIRO previously had them from 1985-2002. They were on KVI from 1977 to 1984. Incidentally, Dave Niehous has been with the broadcast team since it's inception.

How To Make A "Viral Video"

From "youtube", tips on how to get the world to see your work.

McCartney Performs In The North

Coincidentally, while Ringo was rockin the Winery, Paul McCartney was performing in Quebec. Quebec City was celebrating it's 400th birthday.

This video off you tube was actually taken at the Chateau Ste Michelle Winery.

Birthday Concert With A Beatle

Last night was my birthday and Deb and I were headed to Sport Restaurant to meet up with family and friends, or so I thought. Deb surprised me with tickets to watch Ringo Starr and the All Star Band. The Concert took place at the Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery in Woodinville. In my opinion, it is one of the best concert venues in the area, the weather was perfect and we had a pic-nic spread. During the concert, hot air balloons flew overhead, and it really added an extra dimension.
Besides Ringo, the All Star Band, which I guess changes every year, except of course for Ringo himself included Edgar Winter, Colin Hay (formerly of Men At Work), Billy Squire, Gary Wright (who sang the monster 1976 hit Dream Weaver), Hamish Stewart(formerly of Average White Band). Each member sang their respective hit. Ringo sang Beatle songs like "Yellow Submarine", "What Goes On", "Boys" (which he had performed also with his original group Rory Storm), "I Wanna Be Your Man" and the very popular "With A Little Help From My Friends". He also did some of his solo hits like "Photograph" and "It Don't Come Easy".
To see Ringo in concert made it a very special birthday. Since the pictures were from a distance, I used footage off You Tube of one of Ringo's previous concerts.

Trip XII: Firesky Resort

Captain's log: stardate July 5th, OK, at least I thought it was funny. We arrived at the Firesky in time for the wine-tasting held every evening. If you remember, the Firesky was where we had first arrived the week before where we spent the night before heading to Sedona. The problem this time was they did had lost our reservation, luckily, the front desk which was outstanding was able to come up with a room for us.
You would think that Scottsdale, Arizona would turn into a virtual ghost town in the summer as the temperature spike into the 110s. Not so! The Firesky was rockin' and rollin' and the pool was alive with "Girls Gone Wild" set. As I had said before, there was a bar at the pool and a good looking bunch of kids were having a wonderful time acting crazy. Also there was a family reunion and a wedding going on at the Hotel.
I wanted to take Deb to Tempe and look at the Arizona State University campus. The front desk told me that Mill Street had some great Restaurants and clubs. We wound up eating a great Italian meal at a new place called La Bocca. We headed back to the Firesky and went for a late night swim. Around 3 in the morning, we were awakened, the kids, who were having a great time in the pool had stayed drinking and a couple were having a serious fight. A girl in the hall was swearing up a blue streak and the situation was turning very ugly. Apparently it caught the attention of the front desk because when I looked out the door, there was hotel security there to help solve the problem.
We got to the airport and ready to board our flight, but there was a problem. We were not allowed to bring some Margarita mix on the plane. We had to have it shipped to us. After that was resolved we were able to board the plane and fly back to Seattle.

Trip XI: The Voyage Home

Thanks to watching the Super Bowl, I can now count in Roman Numbers. As we get further from the trip--I've been home for two weeks now, the tougher it is to write about it. Where as it was the day after we got home that I started this series.

Anyway, it was Saturday July 5th, time to clean up the condo and get on the road. Our plan was to visit some remaining sites in Sedona on our way to Scottsdale again, where we would again stay at the Firesky Resort. We visited the "Chapel Of The Holy Cross", as you can see in the first 3 pictures going up. That is a beautiful temple of worship carved into the rocks. We also found time to stop at Montezuma's Well and Montezuma's Castle. We had lunch at an Indian casino along the way. We arrived at The Firesky (top picture) and the craziness began again.

to be continued....

Trip X: Fourth Of July In Cottonwood

Our co-worker, Bill said the best 4th Of July fireworks display around Sedona was in Cottonwood.

Trip IX: More Of Jerome

Here are some more good shots that are too good in my opinion not to post. Next up is the 4th Of July and the trip home. Above is the ghost town and also the Connor Hotel.

Trip VIII Jerome Arizona

To enjoy Jerome, Arizona, you need a good sense of history and a vivid imagination. The town is a half hour drive from Sedona. It was once a booming copper mining town, but now is a popular tourist destination. The old mine has a "must stop" with many of the old buildings and trappings of a bygone era. The Haunted Hamburger, (pictured top) where we stopped for lunch, was once featured on Food Network's $40 Dollars A Day, with Rachael Ray.